Sometimes it can be hard coming up with new and creative cooking group and social programs, especially in a setting or community where there are varying levels of cognitive function between residents. May we suggest trying to take a new healthier approach when planning these programs?

Studies show that older adults who regularly eat brightly-colored fruits and vegetables experienced less cognitive decline compared to those who did not consume these foods. Learn about some of these foods and the beneficial role they play in assisting in maintaining healthy brain functions and supporting memory. Try implementing some of the program examples listed into your community so that you can provide food centered programs with a purpose and help your residents remain mentally sharp!!

Glucose

• Your body metabolizes glucose when eating healthy sugars and carbohydrates. Fruits such as Blueberries protect the brain from stress and may reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. They also may increase your learning capacity and motor skills as you age. Honey is another great natural source of Glucose.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Host a Smoothie Cooking Group that features a variety of Natural High Glucose types of Fruit and Honey.

Fish

• Eating fish at least once a week has been linked to reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s by more than half, and also lowering risk of dementia and stroke. The rich omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are essential for good brain function and may support the function of brain cell receptors.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Have you residents share their home made Tuna Salad recipes. Then have them assist in making an Easy Tuna Salad Recipe from scratch as a group!

Nuts and Chocolate

• Nuts are rich in vitamin E, which is attributed to slowing cognitive decline as you get older. Dark chocolate (consumed in moderation) contains antioxidants, which can enhance concentration.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Chocolate covered peanuts or Almonds are a great cooking activity that all residents can participate in.

Avocados and Whole Grains

• Avocados and whole grains enhance blood flow to stimulate brain cells. Deficiencies in the nutrients provided by Avocados and Whole Grains have resulted in leading to declines in cognitive function, Alzheimer’s and stroke.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Try having two programs in one day to tackle these great recipes.  Easy Whole Wheat Tortilla Chips that can be served with Easy Avocado Dip. Have a cooking group to make these healthy dishes then have a social gathering to serve them and learn about them.

Apples

• Apples are rich in the antioxidant quercetin, which also protects against Alzheimer’s disease. Don’t peel your apples, though, as the skin contains the most quercetin. Apples are also a great source of Natural Glucose!

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Have a creative cooking group with Easy Fun and Healthy Apple Snacks like Apple Stacks with Dark Chocolate, Nuts and Peanut Butter

Spinach

• Some studies have shown that spinach can prevent and even reverse memory loss. Spinach is high in folic acid, which protects against Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Try something new in your cooking group by making some Oven Baked Spinach Chips. With the rinsing and drying of the Spinach leaves, your residents will have the opportunity to whole heartedly participate!

Iron-rich Foods  

• Being even mildly iron-deficient affects learning, memory and attention! Eat dark, leafy greens, beans, lean meat and soy to boost the iron in your body.

Cooking Group/Social Idea: Host a Salad Bar Social with plenty of Iron-rich options, or have your residents create their own GORP mix with Iron Rich Peanuts!