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Nutrition for the Caregiver

Nutrition for the Caregiver. Presented by Tamika Forkner, MS, RD, LD November 8, 2013. The Caregiver. Care giving t o give Care t o take Care of to Care for t o provide Care What do these terms/phrases mean?. Consider this….

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Nutrition for the Caregiver

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  1. Nutrition for the Caregiver Presented by Tamika Forkner, MS, RD, LD November 8, 2013

  2. The Caregiver • Caregiving • to give Care • to take Care of • to Care for • to provide Care What do these terms/phrases mean?

  3. Consider this…. • More than 50 millions Americans are caring for family members, partners and/or friends. • Studies show that caregivers are twice as likely to suffer from depression than the general public. • Caregivers are also more likely to have high levels of stress hormones, inhibited immune systems, slow wound healing, hypertension and coronary heart disease.

  4. Consider your Care • Do you often skip and/or delay meals? • Are you drinking enough water/liquids? • Are snacks/fast food/junk food replacing full meals? • Do you forget to take your own medication? • Have you started medication since becoming a Caretaker?

  5. Mealtime A time to slow down and nourish yourself mentally and physically. • Enjoy a meal with your loved one(s). • Take time to enjoy a meal alone. • Accept the offer of someone making a meal for you.

  6. The Basic Food Groups • Fruits • Vegetables • Dairy/Milk • Meat/Protein • Grains/Breads • Water Do you get these daily?

  7. Poor Nutrition • Fatigue • Blood Sugar spikes – Low/High • Dehydration • Unintentional weight changes • Moodiness • Digestive problems • Interrupted sleep patterns

  8. Proper Nutrition • Energetic • Hydrated • Blood sugar regulation • Weight management • Cognitive function maintenance • Good digestive health • Mood boost • More restful sleep

  9. Helpful Tips • Goal: 3 meals & 2-3 snacks • This goal should include ALL food groups & water. • Reality: This may not happen. • ALSO - Accept that “full course meals” may not happen every day. • Be prepared!!! • Pick one day to cook for the week. • Shop for yourself as if you were a child – snacks, juices, fruits, etc. • Set your phone to alarm every 2-3 hours and eat something. • Stay hydrated - Always keep water with you. • Your food choices should be as nutrient dense as possible.

  10. Take time for your Care The health & well being of your loved one/client depends on how well you take Care of yourself. • You must nurture and nourish yourself. • Take the time: • Exercise – talk a walk, schedule this with a friend. • Meditate – wake up 10-15 minutes earlier for this quiet time for yourself. • Sit down and eat – whether it’s a meal or a snack. • Ask for help if you can’t find the time.

  11. Resources • Family Caregiver Alliance • www.caregiver.org • Today’s Caregiver • www.cargiver.com • AARP – Caregiver Resource Center • www.aarp.org • Caregiver Stress - Nutrition • www.caregiverstress.com • Alzheimer’s Blog – “Taking Care of the Caregiver” • www.mayoclinic.com

  12. Thank You Any questions?

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