Mary Alexander: Hi I'm Mary Alexander from Home Instead Senior Care.

Amy Cohn: And I'm Amy Cohn a Registered Dietitian with General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition.

Mary Alexander: Today we're here in the Betty Crocker Kitchens, and we're going to talk about how you can help make mealtime enjoyable for your senior loved one.

Grocery shopping can be a chore but for many seniors it's an important part of feeling confident and providing for themselves. Here is how to keep grocery shopping an enjoyable experience.

Have your senior bring a friend along to share transportation cost and socialize. Encourage him or her to shop at off-peak hours. The isles are less crowded and it's easier to move at a slower pace.

Have your senior bring a list, that way he or she will avoid making impulse-buys and won't spend more than planned.

Amy Cohn: Speaking of shopping lists, there are certain healthy foods packed with nutrition that your senior loved one should be sure to buy. Dark, green, leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach and Broccoli contain potassium and are fiber-rich. 4-5 cereals made with whole grain are wholesome choice and make for an easy breakfast or snack.

Berries and citrus fruits are great sources of vitamin C and antioxidants, and make for great snacks along with low-fat or fat-free yogurt. And lastly your senior needs protein and should purchase eggs and fish especially salmon and tuna. They have heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.

Now let's bring in Shirley Dolland, Manager of Betty Crocker kitchens to share tips on providing flavor for food for your senior loved ones.

Shirley Dolland: One thing you can consider to add additional flavor, sprinkling on lemon juice or some seasonings like fresh or dried herbs and spices to add variety and flavor. And even with diminished senses, seniors tend to retain their taste for sweetness. Choose naturally sweet foods, like sweet potatoes, fruits, and caramelized onions. Or adjust flavors with a low sugar, honey, or Maple syrup.

Mary Alexander: So now your senior has a great wholesome and tasty meal ready. All that's left is to add a little conversation. Simple questions can lead to hours of conversation and provide the much needed companionship your senior loved one needs.