How Seniors Can Get Enough Nutrients While On A Shoestring Budget

Written By Sheila Johnson / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Hundreds of seniors across the country face hunger every day due to their fixed incomes, costly bills, and health complications. It's a social problem of which many people are unaware. Even if seniors have family or friends who could help, some are too embarrassed to reach out. Fortunately, there are many ways that seniors in financial straits can stay healthy in both body and mind. All it takes is a little ingenuity and some careful planning. Let's explore how seniors can get enough nutrients on a shoestring budget.

Prioritize your health

Some seniors may be missing out on key nutrients due to their overspending in other areas. Seniors need to prioritize their health and cut down on their spending in other areas. Instead of going to see a movie once a week or subscribing to magazines, seniors could put that money toward food. Additionally, seniors can save money by whipping up dishes by using ingredients they may already have in their pantries! These recipes include everything from tomato soup to sloppy joes with red lentils, to just name a few.

Frequent libraries and community centers

There are many non-profits and other organizations that work out of libraries and community centers in order to help those in tough financial situations. Sometimes these places host food drives, accept gently used goods, or offer complimentary food. It's helpful to keep an eye out for events like these in your local town. They can be a lifesaver for seniors who are struggling to get their daily allotment of nutrients.

Bring in a roommate

If you've got some extra space in your home, bringing in a roommate can be a great way to increase your monthly income. You can offer the room to another senior friend or family member. Don't forget to keep track of your budget; extra income doesn't mean you have the leeway to spend without thinking.

Take advantage of social programs

While it's true that many seniors are left without many food choices, nearly half of New Jersey seniors who qualify for SNAP benefits don't take advantage of them. Some would rather go hungry and risk their independence than admit to their loved ones that they're in need. Food pantries and social programs can give seniors the nutrients needed to stay healthy in body and mind. It's only a matter of showing up and having the courage to accept the help that is available.

Use available technologies

Technology is an excellent resource for seniors who are lacking the energy or desire to shop for the food they need. Seniors can use apps that encourage healthy shopping and cooking with good ingredients. You can even have groceries delivered to your home with specific instructions on how to cook healthy recipes. There are also subscription services that will send you a box of ingredients that correspond with a healthy dish each day. You can also choose to have ready-to-eat meals delivered to your home.

Although it's important for everyone to get the recommended amount of daily nutrients, seniors are especially susceptible to illness if these dietary basics aren't met. Unfortunately, many seniors go without these vitamins and minerals due to their fixed incomes. If you're willing to accept help from others and adjust your spending habits, you can make sure to get all the nutrients you need.

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Written By:

Sheila Johnson has seen so much personal success with her health and wellness routine after leaving the corporate world and long working hours that she wanted to share it. She created WellSheila.net as a place to not only share her story, but inspire others to put their physical and mental health first with a regular wellness routine and daily self-care.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

Photo by Elien Dumon on Unsplash