As many of you know I am a licensed clinical social worker. I've worked in geriatric psychiatry in one way or another since I was 17 years old. Because I have worked with the older population, I've counseled many widows and widowers who are learning to live on their own. One of the many frustrations they often note is how difficult it is for them to cook for only one person. Included below are some ideas which I've picked up along the way.
- The Senior Box option of Angel Food Ministry provides meals which are conveniently packaged and easy to prepare.
- When you bring home meats and poultry from the grocery, repackage them in indivdiual portions in zip top bags. Be sure to label them with the name of the food and date.
- Give freezer meals another try. Many companies are now offering no preservatives or additive options and healthier choices. The taste and variety is much improved from even a few years ago.
- Shop at a store with a salad bar. When I last bought blueberries at the grocery, I compared the prices from the salad bar and the produce section. The ones from the salad bar were cheaper per unit.
- Share meals. Eating communally is not just good for the budget. Many of my clients were so isolated and felt so lonely. Having a friend over for dinner provided them with much needed socialization and companionship.
- Freeze in small containers and label well. Once a month look through the freezer to see what needs to be used.
- Eat out. Yes, you read correctly. There are times when eating out can be economical. Think about what meals might cost more to make at home as compared to dining out and opt for those choices.
Please add any tips or ideas you have to the comments section.
Frozen chicken and fish are sometimes individually wrapped. This is ideal for preparing one or two portions. They tend to last longer without getting freezer burn, too.
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