Good nutrition is the cornerstone of health and vitality for seniors, supporting energy, immunity, and overall well-being. In assisted living, mealtimes are more than just nourishment—they’re opportunities to enjoy flavorful dishes, socialize, and feel cared for. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps seniors stay strong, while staying hydrated keeps energy levels steady throughout the day. As our loved ones age, their nutritional needs shift. Eating well can help maintain strength, prevent illness, and even support cognitive function. But beyond the science, food plays a powerful emotional role. A familiar dish can stir a memory. A warm meal shared with others can ease loneliness. And a colorful, thoughtfully prepared plate can inspire even the most reluctant appetites.
That’s why at Sommerset, we make nutrition a personalized experience. Whether managing diabetes, supporting heart health, or simply honoring a lifelong love of tomato soup and grilled cheese, our culinary team creates meals that fuel the body and soul.
But how that nutrition is delivered—and shared—makes all the difference.
Families often ask us how they can support their loved one’s eating habits after moving into assisted living. The answer is surprisingly simple: small, thoughtful actions can help create a joyful, familiar, and healthful dining experience.
Here are three easy and effective ways our staff have told us that families can play an active role in supporting senior nutrition:
1. Offer Colorful, Appealing Meals
As we age, appetite and taste may change—but we still eat with our eyes first. That’s why visually appealing meals can spark interest and encourage better eating.
Our team recommends focusing on meals that include a variety of colors, such as green vegetables, orange sweet potatoes, red tomatoes, or vibrant fruits. These colors don’t just look appetizing—they also bring different nutrients to the plate.
At Sommerset, we make it a priority to serve colorful, well-balanced dishes like crisp garden salads, hearty soups, and fresh seasonal fruits. But families can help, too:
- Share your loved one’s favorite colorful meals with our staff so we can incorporate them into the menu.
- Bring or suggest familiar recipes that are full of color and flavor—think Grandma’s vegetable soup or a favorite fruit salad.
- Encourage your loved one to join a cooking activity in the community to stay engaged with the food they eat.
Colorful meals aren’t just beautiful—they’re beneficial.
2. Snack Smart Throughout the Day
Good nutrition doesn’t stop after mealtime. Seniors often benefit from small, healthy snacks between meals to keep energy steady, support metabolism, and maintain strength.
Our team keeps nutritious snacks available, like sliced fruit, whole-grain crackers, or unsalted nuts, all easily accessible and senior-friendly. But you can support this habit too:
- Send your loved one’s favorite healthy snacks to keep in their room or common areas.
- Encourage small, frequent eating if larger meals seem overwhelming.
- Join them for snack time—a mid-morning apple and tea together can create a relaxing, meaningful moment.
Even simple snacks can be powerful tools for keeping your loved one energized and nourished.
3. Dine Together to Make Meals Special
One of the most meaningful ways to support nutrition in assisted living? Share a meal together.
Eating in community promotes better nutrition and lifts spirits—especially when it includes family. A shared meal can transform a routine lunch into a warm, connected experience filled with conversation and laughter.
At Sommerset, we welcome families to:
- Join their loved ones for meals in our dining areas—whether for a holiday, a weekend visit, or just a surprise lunch.
- Celebrate with familiar foods—bring a cherished family dish and enjoy it together.
- Encourage mealtime rituals like blessing the food, setting the table, or even just chatting during dessert.
These shared moments turn meals into memories—and support both physical and emotional well-being.
Fueling Wellness, One Bite at a Time
At Sommerset Neighborhood, our approach to dining blends wellness with warmth. From carefully crafted menus to shared mealtime experiences, every detail is designed to nourish the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
Families play a vital role in that journey. By offering colorful meals, encouraging smart snacking, and sharing meals together, you can help your loved one thrive in assisted living.
Want to see our dining experience firsthand? Come visit Sommerset for a tour—and stay for lunch. You’ll taste the care in every bite.
Sommerset Neighborhood Assisted Living & Memory Care—where every meal is made with love, and every moment matters.
