Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
National Nutrition Month, held annually in March, encourages Americans to make in
formed food choices and develop sound eating habits. Malnutrition can be a serious health issue for older adults, affecting everything from the immune system to bone mass.
At The Carlisle Naples, a luxury senior living community, residents can savor the flavors of fresh, healthy food choices year-round. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Marlon Perez, The Carlisle provides meals that are not only delicious but nutritious. In addition to providing a culinary experience that caters to residents’ tastes and desires, the on-site restaurant, The Carlisle Room, offers heart-healthy menu options.
“Our menu changes every week and selections may include a fresh salmon filet, lightly seasoned and grilled to order and finished with a drizzle of pesto glaze or herb-crusted spring lamb chops roasted to perfection with onion mint marmalade,” said Chef Perez, who has been part of The Carlisle team for over a decade.
In addition to the five nightly specials, The Carlisle offers selections ranging from comfort foods (pot roast and meatloaf) to heart-healthy options (organic spinach salad and the community’s signature cornucopia salad which includes mixed greens, avocado, and grilled chicken).
A new study published in “Neurology” found that healthy seniors who consumed leafy green vegetables daily had a slower rate of cognitive decline than those who ate little to no greens.
Chef Perez encourages older adults to add more leafy greens to their diets by delighting the senses with rich textures and colors. Instead of iceberg lettuce, for example, consider kale, spinach or even collard greens. Superfoods such as walnuts and blueberries also enhance the flavors of salads.
Another factor that plays a role in nutrition is the availability of a tablemate (or lack thereof). Dining alone for prolonged periods can affect one’s appetite. It can also be mentally and physically unhealthy. Not surprisingly, enjoying a meal with at least one other person increases the amount of food eaten by 35 percent!
The Carlisle’s flexible 12-hour dining means residents can dine at their convenience, and meet up with
friends and neighbors. The Carlisle Room, renowned for its extensive menu, offers a complimentary full breakfast plus a choice of lunch or dinner daily, included in the community’s monthly fee.
“Our restaurant is designed for both intimate and large gatherings,” explained Chef Perez. “Our Private Dining Room can also be reserved by residents celebrating a birthday or anniversary.”
Families are also encouraged to dine at The Carlisle. The community’s themed dinner parties and socials, which are held throughout the month, are a great alternative for residents who regularly hosted family gatherings in their former homes.
The Carlisle’s monthly, “Let’s Dish” program offers yet another way for residents to engage with each other and with Chef Perez. It is during these sessions that Carlisle residents can learn about recipes that are being considered as upcoming menu choices, share their own personal recipes and learn about healthy food options to incorporate into their diets.
“Food plays an important role in the lives of our residents,” said The Carlisle’s Executive Director Bill Diamond. “As we age, our bodies process food differently. This, in turn, can affect our dietary needs, appetite and
even how food tastes. Our executive chef and his team strive to help residents maintain a well-balanced diet using the freshest, seasonal ingredients and create a dining experience that is on-par with the fine restaurants for which Naples is known.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and a complimentary full breakfast plus choice of lunch or dinner in the community’s gourmet-style restaurant. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle, a luxury, resort-style senior living community in North Naples, offers both Independent and Assisted Living lifestyles. Available on a monthly fee basis, the ECC-licensed and CARF-accredited community boasts a full range of services and amenities including 12-hour restaurant dining, housekeeping, transportation and activities. Located on Airport-Pulling Road, between Pine Ridge and Immokalee Roads, the award-winning community’s lush tropical environment is highlighted with meandering walking paths around three lakes and tranquility gardens. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Director of Marketing Greg Pascucci at 239-221-0017.