nutritional challenges that impact what, where, and when we eat. The older years are no exception.

Aging affects each individual differently. For some, changes are minimal and slow. Some seniors still have partners, are active, healthy, ambulatory and still involved in the world of work and play. Others may be alone, ill, on a fixed or reduced income, have chronic diseases, decreased mobility or have some combination of these factors.

Here are some helpful hints to help deal with some of these challenges.

Hassle-Free Shopping As we age, popping in and out of the supermarket may take a little more effort. But, there's no reason to let your kitchen shelves get bare. Learn to shop without the hassles: Plan ahead. Make a grocery list. That way, you won't need to repeat your steps through the store.

Shop where you are familiar with the layout of the grocery store. Knowing the location items will make your job easier.

Shop at quite times, such as weekday mornings, when stores aren't crowded.

Ask for help with carrying your groceries.

Feeling less stable on your feet? Use the shopping cart for balance even if you have just a few items to buy.

Keep an emergency supply of non-perishable foods on hand: nonfat dry milk, dried fruit canned or frozen foods such as fruits, juice, soup, stew, tuna, beans, peanut butter and cereal. The way, you won't need to head to the store during bad weather or if you are unwell.

Talk with the store manager if you have ideas that could make shopping more convenient for older shoppers, they'll likely listen to your ideas.

Select supermarkets that offer special services. Think about telephone ordering or home delivery or arrange with a friend or relative to pick up your groceries.

Eating Alone Can Be Special Too! When adults lose a spouse or living companion, eating along can feel boring or depressing. Some people don't feel much like preparing food, or even eating.

If you're in that position or know someone who is, you can help spark a tired appetite. Eat with friends occasionally: Get together with other seniors for weekly or monthly potluck suppers. Cut down on the work by taking turns as host. Encourage everyone to bring a favourite dish.

Visit the local seniors socials. Many church and other senior groups provide midday or evening meals at the right price. Added benefits: Seniors' group meals offer a place to meet old and new friends. You can enjoy a meal that takes more work to prepare than you'd likely do for yourself.

When eating out, take advantage of early bird specials when the portions are smaller and the price is right. Consider splitting an order or take home half for another meal if restaurant portions are too large. Some restaurants may provide senior citizen prices - be sure to ask.

Having a standing date with a friend or relative for lunch or dinner at your home. Or, invite the grandchildren to dinner once or twice a month. If you're still `into cooking' but need someone to cook for, organise a gourmet club of like-minded friends.

When you do dine solo, make eating a special event. Looking forward to mealtime can offer a boost to both your appetite and your morale! Set your place at the table, perhaps with a place mat, napkin, candles and centrepiece.

You'll feel more like you've had a meal and with more enjoyment than if you had eaten right from just a plain plate! For a change of pace, enjoy eating in different places: the kitchen, patio or porch, or dining room.

Create some atmosphere or interest. Turn on the radio. Play a favourite cassette tape or CD. Watch your favourite television show as you eat.

Make food preparation easy, especially when you cook for one.

When Cooking is Too Much! Can't cook anymore? That doesn't necessarily mean giving up living on your own.

Meals-on-Wheels bring food to people who are housebound.

Community churches offer hot meals.

There are adult day-care programmes that include a hot meal. Some even provide transportation to and from the programmes.

SENIORS SR