Final answer:
Older adults should adopt a healthy eating pattern with sufficient vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and a variety of proteins, while limiting unhealthy fats, sugars and sodium. Caloric requirements should reflect individual needs based on factors like age and activity level. Lifestyle factors including rest, stress management, and regular exercise are also important alongside nutrition.
Step-by-step explanation:
To improve nutritional status, older adults are advised to follow a healthy eating pattern within an appropriate calorie level. This involves consuming a variety of vegetables from all subgroups, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy, and a diversification of protein sources including seafood, lean meats, poultry, legumes, and nuts. It is also recommended to limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium.
It is important to recognize the average caloric requirement of adult males and females to ensure the energy needs are met. Older adults, particularly those who are less active, such as a 61-year-old woman who does not exercise regularly, are encouraged to focus on nutrient and energy density to make healthier food choices. For instance, the Dietary Guidelines suggest that such a woman should aim for about 2 cups of vegetables per day.
Furthermore, addressing individual nutrient needs is crucial, especially as these vary with age, gender, health status, and activity level. Good nutrition should be coupled with other lifestyle factors such as getting sufficient rest, managing stress, and engaging in regular physical activity to promote overall well-being.