← Back to Blog

The Vital Role of Registered Dieticians in Healthy Aging & Longevity

Senior man consulting with female care provider

If you are literally made up of what you eat, then what you eat is a big part of your overall health and wellness. As we age, the building blocks we need to maintain optimal health changes because of how our body stores and maintains vital nutrients and vitamins. That’s why what we put on our fork is just as important as staying active, getting a good night’s rest and being social. Let’s look at the role a registered dietician can play in helping you maximize your quality of life. 

What is a Registered Dietician and How Are They Different Than a Nutritionist?

Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. For example, someone might read a book, expand their nutritional knowledge, and begin calling themselves a nutritionist. However, to be a registered dietitian or registered dietitian nutritionist requires at least a four-year degree from an accredited dietetics program. They must also complete over 1,000 hours of supervised practice, pass a national exam and participate in ongoing education. Many registered dieticians also hold graduate-level degrees and additional certifications to specialize in specific health conditions. 

Because of their extensive training, registered dietitians are equipped to understand your health conditions, dietary needs, and social and environmental factors — allowing them to deliver you truly personalized care. 

When Should You Consider a Dietitian?

A dietitian can assess your unique dietary needs and create a customized plan that considers medical conditions, medications and lifestyle factors. They can also educate you on portion control, hydration and nutrient-dense foods, leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life. Dietitians can help by creating personalized meal plans that reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, support cognitive function and promote overall wellness. 

What Does a Registered Dietician Do?

Each nutrition counseling session is different, but generally, your dietitian will get to know you, including your cultural background, dietary preferences, medical conditions, budget and goals. Here’s what you can typically expect: 

  • Health and lifestyle review: During your visit with a registered dietician, they will ask about your health history, food allergies, digestive issues and any medications or supplements. They may look for signs of nutrient deficiencies such as hair loss or muscle cramps. 
  • Nutrition education: You’ll learn how foods impact your health, how to read food labels and understand serving sizes.  
  • Mindful eating support: They can help you recognize emotional eating patterns, identify true hunger cues and build a healthier relationship with food. 
  • Goal setting: Based on your needs, a registered dietician will help you identify priorities, set realistic goals and determine your ideal nutrient intake. 
  • Personalized meal planning: You’ll receive a customized plan that considers your preferences, calorie needs and budget. You may also get sample menus and healthy, culturally relevant recipes. 
  • Disease management: If you have chronic health conditions — like diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure — your dietitian will work closely with you to help you better manage those conditions. Through informed food and lifestyle choices, they can help you reduce complications and enhance quality of life. 

A Healthier Lifestyle Starts at The Dinner Table

At Freedom Village of Bradenton, a big part of our independent living lifestyle is giving you the tools you need to fully enjoy life on your own terms. That’s why, among our many services and amenities, we offer an on-site registered dietician to help you keep and maintain your best health. To learn more about our dining options, call us, use our Community Assistant chat feature or contact us here today!