Senior Nutrition Awareness: Nourishing Nigeria's Golden Generation

 

SENIOR NUTRITION AWARENESS: NOURISHING NIGERIA’S GOLDEN GENERATION

By Testimony – EOON Care Blog | 16 August

As Nigeria’s population of older adults grows, the role of good nutrition in promoting healthy ageing has never been more important. Today, adults aged 60 and above face not just health challenges, but also barriers to accessing the right foods. At EOON Care, we believe that senior nutrition is more than a health concern—it is a social responsibility.

We are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s golden generation enjoys balanced, culturally appropriate, and affordable meals that support a healthy, dignified life.

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UNDERSTANDING SENIORS’ NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

Ageing naturally brings changes to the body—slower metabolism, reduced appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and changes in taste and smell. These factors can lead to deficiencies in key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, protein, and fibre.

In Nigeria, these challenges are often made worse by:

• Limited access to healthcare and nutrition education

• Economic constraints that limit food variety

• Reliance on unbalanced traditional or processed diets

Poor nutrition in seniors can result in:

• Weakened immunity and frequent infections

• Muscle loss and fatigue

• Increased risk of falls and fractures

• Complications in managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease

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THE NIGERIAN REALITY

Many older Nigerians rely on family members or informal caregivers—often without professional guidance on diet and meal planning. In rural areas, meals may lack diversity, while in urban areas, many seniors consume high-calorie, low-nutrient foods.

However, there is hope. Across the country, conversations about senior health are increasing, with communities, caregivers, and organisations recognising the link between nutrition, independence, and dignity.

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EOON CARE’S APPROACH

At EOON Care, nutrition is part of our core care philosophy. Whether in our residential Celine Care Centre or through our home care services, we:

• Conduct periodic nutritional assessments to prevent malnutrition

• Create meal plans designed by nutritionists and adapted to cultural preferences

• Blend traditional Nigerian foods with modern nutrition science

• Promote communal dining for social connection, while respecting individual preferences

• Train caregivers through our UK Care Certificate–aligned programme to understand and meet seniors’ nutrition needsCaregiver Induction Tra…

Our menus highlight local, nutrient-rich staples such as:

• Beans for plant-based protein

• Leafy vegetables for vitamins and minerals

• Fresh fruits for antioxidants

• Fish for omega-3 fatty acids

• Whole grains for fibre

We also cater to special diets, including diabetic-friendly and heart-healthy options, ensuring no senior is left behind.

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MOVING FORWARD – A CALL TO ACTION

Healthy ageing starts with the plate in front of our elders. Every family, community, and caregiver can take steps to improve senior nutrition by:

• Offering balanced meals with a variety of food groups

• Encouraging hydration

• Reducing high-salt, high-sugar, and processed foods

• Seeking advice from healthcare professionals on dietary needs

At EOON Care, we stand ready to support families in nourishing their loved ones—not just with food, but with care, respect, and companionship.

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References:

• Akpa, O.M. & Eze, U.A. (2020). Nutritional status and dietary practices of elderly people in South-Eastern Nigeria. African Health Sciences, 20(1), 45–52.

• World Health Organization. (2015). World report on ageing and health. Available at: WHO

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#SeniorNutrition #HealthyAgingNigeria #EoonCare #NourishOurElders #ElderCareNG #NutritionMatters #GoldenYearsWellness #AgeWithDignity #SeniorHealthAwareness #ElderlyCareInNigeria