Have you ever stopped to think about the health benefits your dad gets when you dine with him? Elder care services could provide meal help and companionship for part of the week. When he lives alone, you can plan a family dinner once a week. But, why? What benefits does your dad gain with regular family dinners? How about you?

He Makes Better Food Choices

Think about what your dad eats when you’re not around. Is he likely to cook a meal or does he rely on frozen meals, canned soups, and takeout? He’s not alone, many older adults who live alone will get frozen burritos, pizzas, or even pasta dishes they can microwave and eat in front of the TV.

When you enjoy a family dinner, your dad makes healthier food choices. He’ll have fresh vegetables, whole grains, and some form of protein. He eats a balanced diet that doesn’t contain the excess sodium, saturated fat, sugar, and preservatives that frozen meals have.

He Enjoys Socialization

When you dine together as a family, your dad gets to socialize. He has his children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, cousins, and family friends he can talk to while he eats. He’s not alone, so he sits at the table, eats slowly between conversations, and has the chance to catch up on family news and share his own activities.

Because your dad is surrounded by people he loves, he’s happier. His body releases hormones that ease stress and improve his emotional and mental well-being.

Hosting a family dinner at your dad’s house doesn’t have to be a lot of work. Have everyone who is coming bring a dish. You and your sister could get a salad, your brothers could bring a roast and a whole-grain pilaf. Have your cousins bring pies and ice cream.

If your dad doesn’t want to feel left out, think of something that he likes to make that isn’t too challenging. He used to make roasted carrots when you were younger. He could do those using baby carrots that don’t require too much prep work.

You Have Insight Into Your Dad’s Daily Life

When you dine with your dad, you can talk to him about his daily routines. You’ll get insight into the things he does and doesn’t do. Look around the home and see if there’s anything you notice that obviously needs attention.

For example, you notice that his laundry hasn’t been done since your last visit. See if he has a hard time carrying the laundry, if his machine is broken, or if he doesn’t know how. With that information, you can decide if he needs help from a caregiver.

Elder care services ensure your dad maintains his independence. He doesn’t have to move to a new location to have others helping out. He has a caregiver stopping by as often as he needs. An elder care specialist can help you get started.

If you or a family member need to hire Elder Care Services in Fort Lauderdale FL, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. We provide service in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Margate, Pompano Beach, and Tamarac.

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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