One of the more common problems as we age is that for the elderly, is that many find that they subtly begin to lose their sense of taste. Further, a dulled sense of smell can hinder taste as well. Needless to say, this, too, is a common problem in the elderly and we tend to underestimate how important smell is to taste.
Studies suggest that taste and smell are both strongly associated with memory recollection. Even if it isn’t a specific memory of a place or an event, it stimulates a feeling. The same holds true for people with Alzheimer’s disease according to an excellent article entitled Spices and Herbs to Use in Meals for Senior Citizens.
Using spices and herbs is a fast method to add flavor to the healthy meals you are assembling for seniors in your life. Spices such as cumin and curry are strong in both taste and smell, and as a bonus, offer wonderful health benefits. The same holds true for herbs. Rosemary, lavender, and mint all come with their own strong flavors, smells, and benefits.
At the Brookhouse Home, we have an excellent chef in Denis Cox and we know his meals appeal to the tastebuds of our residents. Last summer, the Brookhouse Home was delighted with our herb garden as we were able to add natural, fresh ingredients to our meals.
For families who like to prepare a Sunday meal or holiday dinner for the whole family, losing the sense of taste is an important consideration because it can cause seniors to consume less food on a daily basis. This is just a very small list of some of the most common spices and herbs that can be found in local markets. Depending on the area you live in, you might have access to a large number of spices. Experiment with flavors when preparing healthy meals for senior citizens that have Alzheimer’s disease. Almost all of these can be incorporated during any meal, including breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Add garlic and herbs to omelets and scrambled eggs. Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on sliced fruit and cereals.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has the highest antioxidant value of any spice. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and lower blood sugar and blood triglyceride levels. It can alleviate nausea and increase sensitivity to insulin. It provides manganese, iron, and calcium. Its antimicrobial properties can help extend the life of foods.
Basil
Basil has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and can help prevent osteoarthritis. It has been used in digestive disorders and is being studied for its anti-cancer properties. Basil is a versatile herb that can be added to practically anything. Fresh is always best, but dried is okay too as long as it is freshly dried.
Arrowroot
Arrowroot is a starchy herb that is easy to keep on hand. It has an amazing thickening ability similar to cornstarch. This herb can be mixed with soups, dips, and bread when you are concocting meals for the elderly or middle-aged adults. It is soothing and highly digestible so it is often used in treatment for conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a common ingredient in Indian foods. It’s a great addition to soups. Turmeric contains Curcumin, a cancer-fighting compound. It is more often taken medicinally in America for its ability to reduce inflammation and improve joints.
Garlic
Most households have garlic around in some form or another. Blend fresh cloves of garlic or powdered and minced garlic to incorporate flavor into healthy meals you are crafting for senior citizens. Garlic can be added to anything from eggs, tuna salad, to baked fish for dinner.
Dill Weed and Seed
Dill has antibacterial properties but is most known for its stomach-settling ability. It contains a variety of nutrients that are mostly lost when heated to high temperatures. For this reason, it is best to use dill in uncooked recipes or in foods cooked at low temperatures.
Cayenne
Cayenne has many health benefits and can improve the absorption of other nutrients in foods. It has been shown to increase circulation and reduce the risk of heart problems. Though available in capsule form, it is also a great addition to many foods. In small amounts, it can be added to practically any dish, meat, vegetable, or sauce.
Mint
Mint is a wonderful herb that is used in many places of the world but is not as common in the United States. A straightforward way for caregivers to alleviate digestive troubles is to blend mint into beverages, meals, or desserts that are assembled for the elderly. Mint can be added to various types of meat dishes and dessert recipes.
Oregano
Oregano (and its milder cousin, Marjoram) features antiviral, antibacterial, anticancer, and antibiotic characteristics. It is extremely high in antioxidants and has demonstrated antimicrobial properties against food-borne pathogens like Listeria.
Cumin
The second most widely used herb/spice in the world after black pepper, cumin provides a distinct and pleasant taste. Cumin has antimicrobial properties and has been used to reduce flatulence.
Rosemary
Rosemary has a high concentration of the antioxidant carnosol and research shows it may be indirectly related to benefits in cancer treatment. Rosemary can be mixed with meals that are created for senior citizens to improve cholesterol levels.
Thyme
Thyme is a member of the mint family and contains thymol, a potent antioxidant and also the potent ingredient in Listerine mouthwash.
Curry Powder
Curry powder can have a wide variety of ingredients, but often contains turmeric, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, mustard powder, cayenne, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, fenugreek, and a wide variety of peppers. With all these ingredients it has an amazing range of beneficial properties.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil helps your body produce three of the most powerful antioxidants, glutathione, catalase, and SOD within 22 hours of ingesting. It can also be used to alleviate nervousness and headaches. In addition, lavender can be used to combat digestive issues including flatulence, loss of appetite, and nausea. Lavender is a popular aromatherapy oil, used to address insomnia, pain, and anxiety.
