PCOA Community Lunch Program
Do You Know... • Someone who could benefit from a lunch program that also provides an opportunity to make new friends? Let’s face it, eating alone, at home, is no fun. • These programs are typically open from Monday – Friday (except as noted and holidays) from 9:00 a.m. to after lunch? • There are fun activities available during these hours? Depending on the site, activities include games, movies, crafts and even field trips. • A transportation subsidy may be available to get someone to these lunch programs? Transportation is provided via Sun Van, to individuals with disabilities with a current ADA Eligibility Card issued by the City of Tucson. • That these lunch programs are open to all individuals 60 and older and their spouse regardless of age? Once you register for a program, you will be required to reserve your meals each week. That way, we know you’re coming and your lunch is waiting for you. A suggested donation of $2–$3 is requested. Senior Center Lunches are a program of the Pima Council on Aging in collaboration with sub-contracted agencies: Catholic Community Services, and the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation Department. Have Lunch and Make a Friend
Check it out here: www.pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ meals-nutrition.html/ Click on “View Monthly Menu” This Month’s Menu
Healthy Eating As We Age
As we age, healthy eating can make a difference in our health, help to improve how we feel, and encourage a sense of well-being. Eating healthy has benefits that can help older adults: Nutrients • Obtain nutrients needed by the body such as potassium, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, minerals, and dietary fiber. • Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. • Reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. If you have a chronic disease, eating well can help to manage the disease. • Meet individual calorie and nutrition needs. • Help to maintain energy levels.
Special Nutrition Concerns for Older Adults Our daily eating habits change as our bodies get older. Make small adjustments to help you enjoy the foods and beverages you eat and drink. • Add flavor to foods with spices and herbs instead of salt and look for low-sodium packaged foods. • Add sliced fruits and vegetable to your meals and snacks. Look for pre-sliced fruits and vegetables on sale if slicing and chopping is a challenge. • Ask your doctor to suggest other options if the medications you take affect your appetite or change your desire to eat. • Drink 3 cups of fat-free or low-fat milk throughout the day. If you cannot tolerate milk try small amounts of yogurt, butter milk, hard cheese or lactose-free foods.
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks. • Consume foods fortified with vitamin B12, such as fortified cereals. Be Active Your Way Focus on maintaining a healthy body weight. Being physically active can help you stay strong and independent as you grow older. If you are overweight or obese, weight loss can improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of disease and disability. • Adults at any age need at least 2 ½ hours or 150 minutes of moderate- intensity physical activity each week. Being active at least 3 days a week is a good goal. • Find an activity that is appropriate for your fitness level. If you are not active, start by walking or riding a stationary
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Page 22 | July/August 2019, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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