According to the United Nations, this year the number of centenarians is expected to rise to approximately 573,000 worldwide, with the US being home to 97,000 centenarians — the highest absolute number in the world. The unique nutrient needs of these aging individuals is a new frontier. Life expectancy in 1921 was 60 years for men and 61.8 years for women. In just 100 years, we have increased the life expectancy to 76.2 years for men and 81.2 years for women.  

While we are all living longer, we are living longer…older. This program will explore the changing physiology and the resulting unique nutrient needs of the body during the aging process. As we age, our caloric needs decline. This means that it is important for all foods and snacks to be nutrient dense. Healthy and practical snacks will be explored, along with discussing how to keep the lines of communication between Food Service providers, Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and Eldercare providers open, as it is essential to ensure the healthy potential of all residents in our care.