Plan a Healthy St Patrick’s Day for the Elderly
Author: homehelpers
Let’s face it. Everyone is a little Irish on St Patrick’s Day! Even mature adults, like me, choose something green to wear, eat corned beef and cabbage, and perhaps, add a shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream to their morning cup of Joe. There is nothing wrong with these things, but there are healthier ways to maintain the joyful spirit of this beloved, spring day, without compromising taste or fun!
I love corned beef and cabbage, but the sodium in the corned beef is simply too much for my personal diet. Many seniors have sodium restrictions in their nutritional recommendations, too. If you, or a caregiver, plans a special St Patrick’s Day for an elderly individual in your lives, there are lots of Irish pubs from which to choose. However, preparation of meals at home are usually more economical, as well as nutritious. If you opt for the corned beef, no more than a three ounce portion is recommended, with an abundance of cabbage! Cabbage is very low in calories and can be prepared separately with little or no salt or butter added.
Another idea for mealtime is Shepherd’s pie. It is a casserole consisting of layers of meat, veggies, and mashed potatoes. This may not seem like a healthier option, but the meat can be prepared with lean ground beef, or ground turkey, and by restricting the use of butter and sour cream in the potatoes, this is a traditional, nutritious option for St Paddy’s day!
If your special senior someone has circulatory issues, they may frequently complain of being cold, even though we live in the Sunshine State. A delicious alternative is cabbage & potato soup. Potatoes and cabbage are staples in Irish fare, so combining them with vegetable or chicken broth, additional veggies and herbs can make for a warm and yummy Irish comfort food!
If the weather is warm and the sun is shining, take advantage of it on St Patrick’s Day! Get seniors out of the house to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Senior centers often host festivities to engage the elderly in social activities on St Patrick’s Day, and there are lots of scheduled events throughout Pinellas and Pasco counties in which to participate.
Home Helpers® proudly serves male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. If you know a senior who could use some companionship or meal preparation this St Paddy’s Day, contact me to learn more about the many services offered through Home Helpers®. We are Making Life Easier℠. (727) 240-3059