The aim of this study is to, through scientific research, determine what elderly people should eat to maintain health and prevent diseases. We want to assess the nutritional needs for seniors and explain how diet affects general wellness. The theoretical framework consists of Eriksson’s and Nightingale’s thoughts about health and Henderson’s hypothesis concerning the patients’ need to intake food and water. Data was collected through document studies. As the method of data analysis we chose to use a review article, in order to get a coherent overview of the articles. The purpose of the study is to provide elderly people with easy access to food recommendations.

The thesis is carried out in connection to the project “Activity TV” and it is commissioned by the city of Vaasa and the nursing home Berghemmet. As a final product of our study we compiled a varying and colorful booklet containing food recommendations, tips for tasty cooking, recipes etc. The results of our study showed that the cognitive capacity in the elderly can be maintained with healthy food. For example grains, vegetables, fish and egg are sources for essential nutrients that help to maintain cognitive health. It also appears that a high intake of fruit and vegetables could reduce mortality among older people. Other nutrients such as protein, calcium, unsaturated fatty acids and folic acid are important to prevent osteoporosis and sarcopenia. Antioxidants also appear to have a protecting role against diseases and influence elderly people’s wellness in a positive direction.