Online Shopping and Caregivers: How To Save Time and Money

Taking care of aging parents is important, but it can sometimes be challenging. Providing nutritious meals to support their health is often a main priority for the modern caregiver. But, this can seem like a immense task when you are also taking care of your family, working, and trying to practice self-care on occasion. Fortunately, online grocery shopping offers a convenient solution. In this article, we will explore how online shopping can help caregivers save time and money.

Step 1: Make a Meal Plan

The first step to help you save time and money when it comes to providing nutritious meals, is to create a meal plan. This can be for any time period you would like - 3 days, weekly, monthly, etc. First, consider your loved one's nutrition needs, food preferences, and any specific dietary restrictions or medical conditions they may have. Next, plan meals that include a variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, protein foods, and whole grains. I have an excellent article on building meals and snacks here. Aim for colorful and varied meals to maximize nutrition. Consider portion sizes that they will actually consume. Incorporate snacks and hydrating beverages into the meal plan as well. If you are looking for a meal planner tool, Cookspiration has a great one that you can use here.

Step 2: Create a Shopping List

Before starting your online grocery shopping, create a list of the items you need. Involve your loved one in the process to make sure you have everything they prefer and require for their meals and snacks. Having a clear shopping list helps you stay focused, saving you time from scrolling through unnecessary items and reducing the chances of impulse purchases. One key advantage to online shopping is that you can have an ongoing list, even when you are not actually shopping. You can keep a tab on items that have run out and replenish them quickly and easily.

Step 3: Choose Your Online Grocery Platform

There are many different platforms to choose from. Many grocery stores have created their own online shops. Choose whichever you may normally shop at, or which may be closest to your loved one for ease of pickup and delivery options.

Here are some in the Alberta region (service and delivery charges may vary by region):

Step 4: Explore Special Deals and Discounts

Many online grocery shopping platforms offer special deals, discounts, and coupons. Keep an eye out for these promotions to save money on your purchases. Check the platform's website or app for weekly sales, "buy one, get one" offers, or discounts on bulk purchases. Take advantage of these money-saving opportunities while ensuring you are still choosing nutritious options for your loved one.

Step 5: Consider Generic or Store Brands

When shopping online, you have the advantage of comparing different brands and prices easily. Take a look at the dollar amount per 100 grams to easily compare across brands to get the best price on products. While branded products may seem appealing, don't overlook generic or store brands. These alternatives often provide similar quality at a lower price. By choosing store brands for staple items like rice, pasta, or canned goods, you can greatly reduce costs while still maintaining nutritional value. If you would like to know more about how to save money at the grocery store, I have an article on the topic here.

Step 6: Opt for Bulk Purchases

If your loved one uses certain non-perishable items frequently, consider buying them in bulk. Online grocery shopping platforms often offer larger quantities of products at discounted prices. Stocking up on essentials like grains, canned goods, or toiletries in bulk can help you save money and minimize the need for frequent purchases, ultimately saving you time and effort in the long run.

Step 7: Plan Your Delivery or Pickup

Online grocery shopping offers the convenience of home delivery or store pickup options. Take advantage of these services to save time and effort. Schedule deliveries during times that work best for you, ensuring you are available to receive the groceries. If store pickup is available, select a convenient time slot to pick up your order without waiting in long lines or navigating the store aisles.

Online grocery shopping can be a valuable resource for caregivers, helping you to save time and money. These tips can help you efficiently manage your time and finances while providing nutritious meals for your loved ones. Embrace the convenience of online grocery shopping and make the most of this valuable tool in your caregiving journey!

Where can I find additional nutritional support for my loved one?

If you would like a dietitian to help you with using online shopping to help save time and money as a caregiver, I am happy to help! I offer a Living in Place Blueprint for seniors and caregivers, which includes an in-depth assessment of a nutrition risk screening, a nutrition-focused physical exam, a full diet analysis, nutrition recommendations, education, and goal setting. A swallowing assessment can be part of this program as well. The focus will be on how best to support your loved one to stay in their home and lead a healthier, happier life.

Read more about my services here: 1:1 Coaching.

If you would like to book your free 15-minute discovery call with me, you can do so here.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Discovery Call

And remember to check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered for Registered Dietitian Services through your plan or health spending account. Dietitian services are also tax deductible!