How a Nutrition Plan at Home Can Help You Feel Better, Stay Stronger, and Live Longer
As we age, eating well becomes one of the most important ways to stay healthy and independent. But things like decreased appetite, medications, or trouble getting to the store can make it harder to eat right every day. That’s where a nutrition plan supported by Proper Way Home Nutritionists comes in. Research shows that seniors who receive this kind of help see major improvements in their health, happiness, and quality of life. Here's what the science says:
4/28/20252 min read
1. Eat Better, Get Stronger
A well-balanced diet helps protect against muscle loss, fatigue, and falls. When seniors receive meal support at home—whether through a caregiver or home-delivered services—their diets improve dramatically.
According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition in Gerontology and Geriatrics, seniors who received home-delivered meals had significantly higher intakes of key nutrients, including protein, fiber, calcium, and vitamin B12.
The same study showed that only 20% of seniors not receiving meal support met daily dietary recommendations, compared to over 60% of those who did.
What this means for you: With just a little help, you’re far more likely to eat foods that help you stay energized, mobile, and strong.
2. Avoid the Hospital
Malnutrition—often undetected—can lead to weakness, illness, and unnecessary hospital visits. But a good nutrition plan can reduce these risks.
A 2022 report in BMC Geriatrics found that seniors who received meal support had 23% fewer hospital admissions and 19% shorter hospital stays than those without such support.
Another analysis by Meals on Wheels America showed that proper nutrition combined with home check-ins reduced emergency room visits by 39%.
What this means for you: Eating right at home can keep you feeling better—and out of the hospital.
3. Keep Your Mind Sharp
What you eat affects your memory and mood. The right nutrients can help support brain health and reduce the risk of dementia and depression.
A 2020 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that seniors who followed a Mediterranean-style diet had a 35% lower risk of cognitive decline.
A separate study in The Journal of Aging and Health found that seniors who received regular nutrition education and support had 30% lower rates of depression symptoms after six months.
What this means for you: Food isn’t just fuel—it’s medicine for your mind.
4. Feel More Secure at Home
Many older adults worry about whether they’ll have enough healthy food in the house, especially if they live alone or on a fixed income.
The National Health and Aging Trends Study found that more than 15% of seniors experience food insecurity, and that number increases significantly for those over 80.
Research published in Public Health Nutrition shows that home-delivered meal programs can reduce food insecurity by up to 63% and improve perceived safety and social connection.
What this means for you: A consistent nutrition plan brings peace of mind, knowing your next healthy meal is never far away.
5. Stay Independent Longer
Most older adults say they want to “age in place”—to live in their own homes for as long as possible. Nutrition plays a key role in making that possible.
A randomized study by the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging found that seniors who received both meal services and nutrition counseling were twice as likely to still be living at home one year later compared to those without support.
Another study in The Gerontologist found that personalized nutrition plans delayed nursing home placement by an average of 12 months.
What this means for you: Eating well with a little help at home can give you more time where you’re most comfortable—at home.
You Deserve to Feel Your Best
You’ve taken care of others your whole life—now it’s time to let good food and caring support take care of you.
With a personalized nutrition plan and a little help from Proper Way's Home Nutritionists, you can feel stronger, stay mentally sharp, and continue living the life you enjoy.
Would you like help getting started with a meal plan that fits your needs and health goals? Proper Way's Home Nutritionists can guide you every step of the way.