So much to do, so little time. Life has never been better for the older people of today.

The term ‘elderly’ once implied a frail, ancient, grand person type who was considered ‘over the hill’ and on the way out. It’s about time we threw that decrepit old stereotype out with the walking sticks and the knitting needles. Currently, we are seeing increasing numbers of 80 year olds who are active and who are trying new things including playing sports such as golf or tennis.

In the 1990’s, Americans and Canadians are living about 20 years longer on average than they did at the beginning of the century. In fact, the average life expectancy rises by more than 2 years every decade. Americans and Canadians are not just living longer; they are living stronger by making the most of these years.

Older people can be just as adventurous as young adults in trying new food products, convenience foods and new cooking methods. A varied lifestyle and a varied diet seem to be the key elements to vitality in later life.

In addition to the ‘Dietary Guidelines for Elderly’ being developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council, the American Nutrition Foundation recommends the following lifestyle guidelines for older people:

1. Eat three nutritious meals a day.
Do your body a favor by choosing high quality foods that are packed with nutrients. Substituting a regular meal with a few biscuits and a cup of coffee or tea is not doing your body any favors.

2. Remember the importance of fiber.
Lack of fiber has been implicated in constipation, diverticular disease, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Eat fruits, vegetables, whole meal breads and high fiber cereals (preferably wholegrain) daily. Try also to include legumes (such as baked beans) a few times a week. Fruits (such as prunes or pears) and getting some light exercise can also help to maintain a healthy digestive system.

3. Drink at least 6-8 cups of fluid a day.
Fiber can’t work properly if there is not enough fluid consumed. Increasing dietary fiber without an increase in water intake will only worsen the problem of constipation.

4. Include calcium containing foods such as milk, yoghurt, cheese or fortified soy drinks every day
In particular, women’s calcium requirements increase as they get older and a good intake is important to maintain strong bones.

5. Put the enjoyment back into eating.
Meal times are a time for socializing! Eating with friends, family, neighbors, at community centers or senior citizens days are all good options.

6. Different illnesses and conditions often need special attention.
Contact an Accredited Practicing Dietitian in U.S., or a Registered Dietitian in Canada or the American Nutrition Foundation if you are unsure what your particular nutritional needs are. If you are already on a special diet make sure that you have your diet reviewed, especially if you have diabetes - you may be restricting foods that you should be enjoying.