Grocery shopping is one of those errands that every household has to do. Some people enjoy it, but many do not. For seniors, grocery shopping can be difficult. They may have physical limitations, like arthritis, that make walking up and down grocery store aisles hard. Or, they might be living on a tight budget, making it difficult to decide what to buy to make their dollars stretch while still eating a healthy diet.
Whatever the case, we’ve got six tips that can make grocery shopping easier for older adults.
#1 Make a List
A list can be essential for an older adult. It can help seniors to remember everything they need to buy while helping them to avoid impulse purchases. It can also make a shopping trip quicker, requiring fewer steps and less strain on achy joints. Arranging the list by department can ensure the older adult gets through the store as efficiently as possible.
Before making the list, seniors may want to make a menu for the week. This can help ensure the list is complete and eliminate extra trips to the store. It can also allow them to plan the menu using items that are currently on sale, which can save a lot of money.
#2 Learn to Read Labels
Understanding nutritional labels can help seniors to purchase foods that are as healthy as possible with the budget they have. They should look for foods that are lower in fat, sodium, and added sugar.
#3 Stick to the Store Perimeter
Stores are usually set up with the healthiest foods around the perimeter of the store, like produce, meats, and dairy. Older adults should try to spend the most time and money there. The inner aisles are where the processed foods and junk foods are shelved.
#4 Go Shopping After Eating
Shopping on an empty stomach can lead to impulse buys. Seniors might make purchases just because their stomach is growling and an item looks tasty. Eating a light meal before shopping can reduce the urge to splurge.
#5 Eat Something New
This tip might not make grocery shopping easier, but it could make it more fun. Trying a new recipe or a new food each week can give older adults something to look forward to. Also, eating a varied diet can ensure they get more of the nutrients they need.
#6 Hire Home Care
A home care provider can assist with grocery shopping in many ways. They can assist a senior to plan a healthy menu and write a shopping list. A home care provider can also drive the senior to the store. Having a home care provider along can make the task more enjoyable. Also, home care providers can bend down to get the low items or stretch up to get the high ones, movements that can be painful for some older adults.
Sources: https://www.ncoa.org/economic-security/benefits/food-and-nutrition/senior-nutrition/
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/10-tips-for-healthy-grocery-shopping#1
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Walpole MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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