Huynh Chien works in Ho Chi Minh City, while his mother lives alone in Tay Ninh. Due to her age, she no longer enjoys meals as she used to, eating very little. Only when her children and grandchildren visit does she eat a bit more, thanks to the livelier atmosphere.

Shared meals with family make dining more enjoyable for seniors. Photo: Minh Anh

Studies show that seniors often experience appetite loss due to changing tastes. Prolonged loss of appetite leads to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, weakened immunity, increased risk of falls, and a decline in quality of life. Eating alone also contributes to seniors' tendency to eat less, depriving their bodies of essential nutrients.

Mr. Chien’s mother often catches colds or the flu when the weather changes and struggles with stairs. She once fell and dislocated her joint, her recovery prolonged by weak immunity and nutritional deficiency. Unable to persuade her to move in with him, Mr. Chien supports her from afar by sending her nutritional supplements formulated for seniors.

Understanding the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise, Minh Phuong (Long Bien, Hanoi) encourages her parents to exercise daily in their neighborhood. Living in the same apartment complex allows her to closely monitor their nutrition. Since her parents, nearing 70, don't eat much, she keeps supplemental nutrition drinks readily available for them.

Experts recommend that seniors maintain a balanced diet: sufficient carbohydrates, reduced fat, high-quality protein, plenty of vegetables and fruits. Additionally, they suggest supplements containing HMB for muscle health and YBG to boost immune cells, strengthening immunity and reducing the risk of upper respiratory infections.

Nutritional supplements are a popular choice for families caring for their loved ones. Photo: Minh Anh

Nutritional supplements are a convenient option for caring for aging parents. Ensure Gold, a nutritional brand from Abbott, has supported Mr. Chien, Ms. Phuong, and many others in caring for their parents. Ensure Gold provides complete and balanced nutrition, with HMB for muscle health, YBG for immunity, and 39 essential nutrients for overall well-being.

Abbott has over 135 years of experience in healthcare, from nutrition and pharmaceuticals to diagnostics and medical devices. Ensure Gold boasts a history of over 50 years, available in over 85 countries, with over 30 scientific studies supporting its effectiveness.

According to Mr. Chien and Ms. Phuong, honoring parents goes beyond gifts for Vu Lan (Vietnamese Mother's Day). It's about daily care and attention. Proper nutrition and simply listening are practical and loving ways to help parents maintain their health.

Diep Chi