Healthy eating is essential for aging well during retirement.
With our population rapidly aging, the significance of nutrition for older adults cannot be overstated. By helping residents manage or prevent chronic diseases through healthy food choices and being active daily, even at a later stage in life, life can be healthful, enjoyable and productive.
At Metta Lifestyles Retirement Residences, we understand the unique challenges seniors face in maintaining proper nutrition and staying active as they age.
We update our menu seasonally, ensuring variety and freshness while adhering to guidelines such as the Retirement Homes Act, Canada's Food Guide (CFG).
From comforting classics to delightful surprises, here's what you or your loved one can look forward to enjoying.
Breakfast for Seniors
We believe in starting the day right with a breakfast that fuels your body and brightens your spirit.
Our breakfast menu offers a delightful array of choices, ensuring something to satisfy every palate. We understand the importance of variety, so our breakfast spread is designed to keep things interesting.
Freshly Baked Muffins
Creamy Hot Cereal
Eggs Cooked Just the Way You Like Them
Sizzling Bacon and Sausage
Irresistible Pancakes, French Toast, and Waffles
Heart-Healthy Oatmeal
Lighter Options: Cereal, Fruit & Toast
Lunch Options for a Midday Boost
A nutritious and satisfying lunch helps maintain energy levels, supports cognitive function, and provides a social opportunity for our residents to gather and enjoy each other's company.
Our lunch menu is crafted with care, offering a variety of flavourful and wholesome options to suit every taste.
A Special Soup of the Day
Deluxe Hamburger
Tuna Salad Sandwich
Chicken Salad Sandwich
Pulled Pork on a Bun
Pasta Salad
Fresh Cut Fruit
Montecristo Sandwich
Shrimp Salad Plate with Fresh Roll
Green Salad
Fish & Chips with Tarter Sauce
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Quiche Lorraine
Chef Salad with Chicken on a Fresh Roll
Croque Monsieur
Salmon Salad Sandwich & More
Healthy Dinner for Seniors
Dinner at Metta Lifestyles is a time to unwind and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal. Our dinner menu is thoughtfully designed to offer a variety of flavourful and nutritious options that cater to every taste.
Our dinner menu often includes:
Chicken a la King
BBQ Ribs
Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Seafood Crepe
Steak & Mushroom Pot Pie
Turkey Schnitzel
Slow-roasted pork Shoulder
Liver with Bacon, Onions & Gravy
Cod Fillet
Trout Fillet
Pork Chop with Caramelized Onion Gravy
Baked Sole Fillet
Salmon Fillet & More
Dietary Menus for Assisted Living
We understand the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs. Whether you or your loved one is gluten-free, vegetarian, or has other dietary restrictions, we are committed to providing delicious and nutritious meals for all our residents.
Gluten-Free Options: Enjoy a variety of meals including salads, soups, grilled meats, and gluten-free desserts.
Vegetarian Choices: Savour vegetable stir-fries, protein-rich bean dishes, creative salads, and plant-based pasta.
Customized Meal Plans: We also offer diabetic-friendly, low-sodium, and allergy-conscious options to meet specific dietary needs.
Memory Care and Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in memory care. Our best practices prioritize individualized care, meaningful engagement, and a supportive environment tailored to residents' unique needs and preferences.
Our Metta Memory’s dining program allows residents to feel as independent as possible for as long as possible, ensuring a dignified and enjoyable dining experience.
Key features include:
Dedicated & trained staff to assist during meals
Nutritional meal plans and customized options
Weighted cutlery, tailored tableware, and ergonomic drinkware to promote independence while eating
We pay careful attention to each element of our memory care facility, ensuring that meals are not only nutritious but also familiar and comforting for our residents with memory care needs.
If you're considering memory care for yourself or a loved one, Metta Memory offers a caring community where your loved one feels comfortable, engaged, and valued.
Diet For Seniors FAQ
What does the Canada food guide recommend for the senior diet?
The Canada Food Guide provides several recommendations for seniors to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Key points include:
Variety: Emphasize a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Variety ensures a range of nutrients.
Protein: Seniors should include protein at every meal to maintain muscle mass. Good sources are beans, legumes, lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, and seeds.
Fiber: High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes help with digestion and prevent constipation.
Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is crucial. Water is the best choice, but other beverages like milk, fortified soy beverages, and unsweetened coffee or tea can also contribute.
Healthy Fats: Include sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish while limiting saturated and trans fats.
Calcium and Vitamin D: Important for bone health. Sources include dairy products, fortified plant-based beverages, leafy green vegetables, and fish.
Limiting Sugar and Sodium: Reduce intake of added sugars and sodium to lower the risk of chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
What are the best foods for seniors for brain health?
For brain health, seniors should focus on:
Fatty Fish: High in omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for brain health. Examples include salmon, trout, sardines, and mackerel.
Leafy Greens: Contain antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin K, lutein, and folate. Examples include spinach, kale, and broccoli.
Berries: High in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which are beneficial for brain health. Examples include blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries.
Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats and antioxidants. Examples include walnuts, almonds, and flaxseeds.
Whole Grains: Support cardiovascular health, which in turn supports brain health. Examples include oatmeal, whole wheat, and brown rice.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Coffee and Tea: Contain caffeine and antioxidants that may support brain function and health.
Which foods are not recommended for seniors?
Certain foods should be limited or avoided to maintain health in seniors:
High-Sodium Foods: Processed and packaged foods often contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to hypertension.
Added Sugars: Sugary drinks, candies, and baked goods can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues.
Trans Fats: Found in many processed foods and baked goods. These fats can increase the risk of heart disease.
Highly Processed Foods: Often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. Examples include fast food, frozen meals, and snack foods.
Raw or Undercooked Eggs, Meat, and Fish: Higher risk of foodborne illness, which can be more severe in older adults.
By following these guidelines, seniors can maintain a balanced diet that supports overall health, brain function, and prevents the progression of chronic diseases.
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