Food items to keep on hand

For a senior with limited range of motion, food preparation becomes almost impossible and many seniors with this problem get Meals on Wheels delivered but they still need to have food items in their pantry for a quick fix in cases of emergency, that is, if food is nowhere to be found!

Here are some things you can keep in stock as they are healthy for you and their shelf life is quite longer than others:


• Granola bars or energy bars. Nothing can be quicker than grabbing a pack, tearing it open and munching up anytime you want to! It can even satisfy your sweet tooth as most granola bars are flavored—flavors ranging from peanut butter, to vanilla, to chocolates.

• Crackers. The ever dependable crackers! Salted, sweet, savory, whole wheat, multigrain.. –you name it, your friendly neighborhood supermarket is most likely to have it! Just make sure that you pack them in re-sealable containers so they will maintain their freshness.

• Trail mix. Trail mixes are good for you. They have nuts and they are energy boosting foods. Same as your crackers, they should be stored in vacuum sealed, re-sealable plastic containers to maintain freshness.

• Peanut butter. Unless you are allergic to nuts then peanut butter must be the best quick fix for seniors since it can be paired with just about anything!

• Freeze dried fruits. They are high in fiber and rich in anti-oxidants. In other words, they will help your digestive system to move a little smoother while keeping you younger looking.

• Canned soups. Contrary to popular notion, not all canned soups are bad. Some are made especially for people with health problems. All you have to do is check labels and make sure you are getting exactly what you need and not those you don’t need at all!

• Power beverages. They can be filling, energy boosting as well as nutritious, not to mention great tasting too. They can also be stacked in the fridge for a quick fix whenever you feel like it. Find one that makes miracles with your metabolism.

• Fruit juices. They are great when chilled and you need to satisfy your sweet tooth without having to worry about calories. Also, most fruit juices in the market today are fortified with vitamins which can be beneficial for you.

• Cereal. They can be eaten dry or with milk. Either way, they are so convenient, they deserve a place in your pantry!
 
Microwave popcorn
Individual size fruit
Walnuts (good for your heart)


Almonds, raw or unsalted

Sunflower seeds,

Raisins, Sweetened dried cranberries,

Figs, dates

Dark chocolate