For one reason or another, seniors are often encouraged to eat soft foods. Not only do softer foods reduce the risk of bleeding gums, chipped teeth, and other oral health issues, but also they make it easier to chew and swallow. Whether you have dentures, dry mouth, or another condition that causes dysphagia (i.e., difficulty swallowing), soft foods can come in handy. So, if you’re looking for some tasty soft snacks for seniors, check out our list below. We’ve included a variety of options since many seniors are also on a special diet — limiting sugar or carbs, for example, or increasing calorie intake. Which of these delicious soft snacks for seniors is your favorite?
Soft Snacks for Seniors
Jell-O & Pudding
A classic for a reason! Both Jell-O and pudding come in various flavors and can be whipped up in very little time. Low-calorie and low-sugar options are available, and you can add a topping like cinnamon, whipped cream, or fruit to mix it up.
Smoothies & Milkshakes
Delectably smooth and satisfying, smoothies can be ultra-healthy (packed with protein and veggies) or sweetly indulgent (filled with cocoa powder, maple syrup, or crumbled cookies). If you want something similar but milkier and frothier, a milkshake is an ideal choice.
Eggs
How do you take your eggs? Whichever method you prefer, eggs are undeniably soft. Try your eggs sunny-side up, poached, scrambled, topped with hot sauce, or even whipped into an egg salad.
Yogurt
Full of protein and calcium, yogurt is an excellent snack option. Beware of added sugars if you’re trying to watch your waistline!
Soup
Though you may think of it more as a meal than a snack, soup is an ideal soft food. You can even pour it into a mug and drink it — a perfect snack for a chilly winter’s day!
Bananas, Peaches, Pineapple, & Berries
Fruits with a tougher shell or membrane, like apples, can be difficult to bite into. Stick to softer fruits or choose fruit purees, like applesauce. You could also peel and cook slices of apples or pears to soften them up. Top with cinnamon for a tasty, healthy dessert!
Cheese
Cheese is an excellent option if you’re trying to add more protein to your diet. Consider snacking on cottage cheese, shredded cheese, or even grilled cheese.
Oatmeal
Whether you prefer instant oats, steel-cut oats, or overnight oats, oatmeal is a hearty, filling snack option. Liven it up with fresh fruit, cinnamon, peanut butter, or a spoonful of jam.
Avocado on Soft Toast
Full of healthy fats, avocado is delicious with just a sprinkle of salt. Or, make some avocado toast with bread that’s still semi-soft.
Nut Butter
Peanut butter is perhaps the most popular nut butter, but almond butter, cashew butter, and even sunflower seed butter have been rising in popularity over the last several years. Blend them into a smoothie, stir them into oatmeal or pudding, layer them on soft toast, or eat a spoonful alongside some cooked fruit. Yum!
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Whenever you want to give your teeth a break, these soft snacks for seniors are an ideal solution. Happy snacking!
Are you looking for an assisted living community in Tennessee? Check out Hearthside Senior Living in Collierville and Bartlett. Our warm and inviting communities make it easy for seniors to embrace a healthy lifestyle with home-cooked and restaurant-style meals, exercise classes, and a nurse devoted to residents’ health and wellness. We would be happy to schedule a tour for you so that you can explore the community, speak with the Community Director, meet some of the residents, and ask any questions you might have. To learn more about our amenities and services, please call 901-266-3329 (Bartlett) or 901-854-6590 (Collierville). We look forward to meeting you!