Preventing Foodborne Illnesses In Senior Years

Uncategorized  |  November 12, 2019

Despite increased food safety regulations, foodborne illnesses are still a major health risk, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that they affect almost 48 million people in the US every single year. The most common culprits are fish, dairy, and chicken, combined amounting to nearly 40% of all cases of foodborne illnesses in the nation.

Seniors are at a higher risk of developing foodborne illnesses and they often need much more time to recover than younger adults. Older adults are more prone to foodborne illnesses due to weakened immune systems and other bodily functions as well as prolonged medication use that just decreases the body’s natural defense against illnesses of any kind.

Tips for Protecting Seniors against Foodborne Illnesses

While contracting foodborne illnesses in senior years can be very dangerous, there are fortunately ways to prevent their development. Here are some recommendations from the US Food and Drug Administration when it comes to purchasing foods at the grocery store:

• Do not buy products with damaged packaging like dented or leaky cans or cracked jars
• Place meats and seafood in separate bags to avoid their juices dripping onto other food
• Always look at the product dating and do not purchase foods that are nearing their expiration dates

Here are some useful tips on food handling and preparation:

• Always thoroughly wash hands with warm water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds before handling any type of food
• Sanitize surfaces that come into contact with food
• Wash fruits and vegetables with water
• Separate meats and seafood from other foods to prevent cross-contamination
• Use separate cutting boards for raw foods and other types of food (veggies, bread…)
• Use a food thermometer to make sure your food is properly cooked
• Make sure that your fridge’s temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit at all times
• Place perishable foods in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking
• Only thaw food in the fridge, cold water or microwave

Here is how to stay safe when eating out:

• Do not order foods with uncooked ingredients
• If you do not like the look of your food, ask to have it sent back
• Place any leftovers in your fridge within 2 hours of leaving the restaurant

 Comfort Keepers® Can Help

At Comfort Keepers, we put a special emphasis on nutrition in senior years and we can minimize the risk of foodborne illness. Our caregivers can prepare food for your parents, taking various preventative measures to ensure the food is safe and healthy to eat. Call our local office today to learn more about our meal prep services and how we can help improve your loved one’s quality of life at home. We are here to help!

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