Tufts Unveils MyPlate for Older Adults

You already know that the older adults you work with have unique physical activity needs, but do you know that their nutrition needs are just as singular? Tufts University nutrition scientists addressed the nutrition aspect directly last November when they introduced MyPlate for Older Adults.

This new graphic guides users to consume healthy foods and beverages in these proportions:

• bright-colored vegetables, such as carrots and broccoli, and deep-colored fruit, such as berries and peaches (half the plate)
• whole, enriched and fortified grains and cereals, such as brown rice and 100% whole-wheat bread (one-quarter of the plate)
• low-fat and nonfat dairy products such as yogurt and low-lactose milk
• dry beans and nuts, fish, poultry, lean meat and eggs
• liquid vegetable oils, soft spreads low in saturated and trans fat, and spices to replace salt
• fluids such as water and fat-free milk

The guide also recommends that older adults get regular physical activity such as walking, resistance training and light cleaning. 

Link your clients to a graphic of MyPlate for Older Adults at http://hnrc.tufts.edu/images/MYplate_OlderAdults.pdf.