Seniors need to eat nutritious food to stay healthy or to attain better health. Often, they are on prescriptions or treatments that may affect their appetite. They also can be afflicted with diseases that come with age and/or weight. So, what they eat needs to include the healthiest foods available. Here are some ideas that may appeal to the senior. As a side note, eliminate salt from these recipes if on a salt-restricted diet.

Here is a great idea that should appeal in the nice, warm weather. It's called Shrimp and Celery Salad, and it's found at http://seniorhealth.about.com/od/eatingwell/r/Shrimp_salad.htm. Whisk together 1/2 reduced-fat sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon grated lime zest, 1 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add 1 1/2 pound peeled, deveined, cooked, medium fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed). Thinly slice 4 large celery stalks and peel and chop 1 large cucumber. Add to bowl and gently toss. Chill until served. This is also probably great with chicken.

Another idea is Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo. This is a lower-fat version found at http://www.setaaa.org/creamy_broccoli_and_chicken_alfredo.htm. First, cook 8 ounces of linguine, adding 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed) broccoli the last 4 minutes. Drain and set aside. Spray a large skillet with vegetable spray and cook 1 pound chicken that has been cubed until brown. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, and cook 1 minute. Add 1 can of 98 percent fat-free cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk (2 percent or less), 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning. Heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Add pasta and broccoli, toss well, and serve. Who says seniors can't enjoy flavorful, delicious cuisines? Well, now they can.