Sharing a meal can provide advantages that extend far beyond nutrition. Many older adults report that they feel their loneliest when eating alone. But when we join family and friends around the table, we are also provided the perfect space to share our lives and create a sense of belonging.
Research has discovered that meals tend to be rushed when eating solo. But dining with others can lead to improved health and contentment, as well as these benefits which include:
- a decreased risk of certain health problems
- creating new friendships while sharing stories around the table
- eating nutritious foods and gaining improved motivation to live healthier lifestyles
- feeling happier and more engaged
Redefining healthy eating
The importance of eating right and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to remaining independent and active, according to the National Council on Aging. But it is also essential to recognize nutritional changes that occur naturally with aging.
Our metabolism slows as we grow older so we will likely need fewer calories. We may also be less active in burning that energy from food. You’ll want to look for foods higher in Vitamin D and fiber while being lower in sodium. Lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy are all important pieces to healthy dining.
Other tips include watching your serving sizes, decreasing packaged and processed food intake and remember to stay hydrated – drinking plenty of water throughout the day is best, while minimizing beverages with sugar unless your doctor has recommended otherwise.
Download our complimentary Successful Transitions guide!
Dining in Waldorf, Maryland – Great options for retirees
If you are considering retirement life in the Waldorf, Maryland area, you’ll be delighted to know you’ll have no shortage of dining options – whether sharing a meal with new friends or discovering a place to pause your day and enjoy your new freedom of time. Take a look at a few of the area’s offerings:
Searching for casual? Try Momi’s Kitchen for delicious Mediterranean fare, Red Tails Ocean Grille for fresh seafood and the Silver Diner for updated American classics. But you will also discover that dining in Waldorf Maryland includes upper end choices. If you’re in the mood for a more special occasion, check out BRABO Brasserie for American cuisine and amazing cocktails, Bistro Cacao if French food and a romantic atmosphere is the intent or Rose’s Luxury for eclectic New American small plate dining.
If a morning coffee plays a role in your daily routine or your treasured part of the day is meeting a friend for a drink, discover the local Starbucks or Clarity Coffee House at Indian Head. Visit the Patuxent Brewing Company or La Fromagerie Wine Bar & Bistro when the occasion calls for lifting a beer or enjoying a glass of wine along with great conversation.
You’ll find that dining in Waldorf Maryland will also help you meet your wellness goals by including more fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s never been easier – or more delicious – than when you visit the Waldorf Farmers Market each Saturday June-November. Stop by the La Plata Farmers Market which is open April-November on Wednesdays and Saturdays for a wide variety of produce, products and crafts or visit the nation’s oldest farmers market held continuously at the same site every Saturday – rain or shine at the Old Town Farmers Market in Alexandria.
Explore dining at The Charleston senior community in Waldorf, Maryland
If the perfect retirement life includes the support and active lifestyle of The Charleston senior living community, you’ll enjoy a beautiful and accessible home, the opportunities to meet and make new friends and participate in stimulating and fun activities. But you’ll also discover healthy and delicious dining options right outside your door.
Whether it’s comfort food or fine dining, The Charleston’s top-of-the-line culinary staff prepares the healthiest and most delectable meals by using only the freshest ingredients – and providing the residents with a wide selection of choices that always start from scratch.
We understand the meaningful connections that can occur when sharing a meal – including the camaraderie of the new friendships that are made. Residents enjoy both the nutritional and social benefits and just like any family, often discover that dining is one of their favorite times to catch up with friends, make plans for getting together and to laugh at the stories.
The Charleston Senior Living Community
Locally owned and operated, we offer personalized care by our dedicated team members. Setting a new standard in Assisted Living and Memory Care, we don’t define our residents by their limitations or illness but instead believe in focusing on the positive and the possibility.
The Charleston Senior Community includes private apartments for assisted living residents and for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Your loved ones will benefit from our attention to detail, routine health assessments, delicious dining and daily activity programs as we support everyone to live their best life.
Consider a few of our amenities:
- Chef-led dining program
- Community movie theater
- Salon
- Ballroom
- Live entertainment
- Outdoor patio
- Social lounges
- Housekeeping
If you or your family is thinking about Assisted living or Memory care, we hope you will consider The Charleston Senior Community. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions, contact us today.
We also invite you to download our complimentary Successful Transitions guide to learn more about making the move to senior living.
