Seniors’ bodies change as they age, which might impact their hunger or thirst. Unfortunately, these changes often cause seniors to lose their appetites, which can result in unintentional weight loss and malnutrition. When loved ones notice these changes, they may call on elder care to assist with getting seniors back on track. The key is to determine what is causing the changes and then develop a plan.
Reasons Why Seniors’ Appetites Might Falter
- Seniors’ Taste Buds May Change: Food may seem less attractive as seniors age due to a decline in their sense of taste and smell. When food tastes bland or unappealing to seniors, they understandably eat less. With elder care in the home, they can help seniors put some flavor back into their food by adding herbs, spices, and sauces to meals in order to boost flavor.
- Side Effects of Medicine May Cause Issues With Appetite: Many drugs can make seniors feel nauseous and dry-mouthed or cause them to lose their appetite. Seniors should talk to their doctor about possible medication changes or dose modifications if they notice their medications affect their eating. It’s essential to support seniors’ concerns and help them document which medications might be at fault. This makes it easier for the doctor to determine what, if any, changes can be made.
- Chronic Health Conditions May Affect Eating: Seniors may suffer from medical issues like dementia, depression, or chronic pain that impact their eating. Seniors who suffer from these ailments may find eating challenging or lose interest in eating. If this is an issue, loved ones can discuss treatment choices with healthcare professionals and create a helpful plan with the elder care team.
- Decreased Physical Activity May Decrease Appetite: Seniors’ appetites can be stimulated, and digestion can be improved by encouraging them to participate in physical activity suitable for their fitness level. Even simple activities like walking can be helpful. Seniors with a sedentary lifestyle may burn fewer calories, which may result in a reduction in appetite.
- Oral Health May Affect Eating: Eating can become tedious if it is difficult to chew or swallow due to dental issues or improperly fitting dentures. Seniors with dental problems should schedule routine dental visits to preserve oral health and ensure dentures fit correctly.
Encouraging Seniors to Eat
Elder care professionals and loved ones can encourage seniors to eat by providing a range of nutrient-dense, simple-to-eat meals, such as eggs, lean meats, and legumes. They can also make mealtime more enjoyable by eating with company or playing music during the meal.
If seniors continue to have trouble eating enough, nutritional supplements may be an effective strategy to increase calorie and nutrient intake. Additionally, offering several small meals throughout the day might be a good idea, especially if seniors find larger meals overwhelming. Before beginning any new supplement program, loved ones should consult a healthcare professional.
Seniors may lose their appetite for various reasons, so finding the root of the problem is crucial. Seniors can get the nutrition they need with help and support from loved ones and elder care.
Source:
https://dailycaring.com/6-ways-to-get-seniors-with-no-appetite-to-eat/
https://westhartfordhealth.com/news/senior-health/loss-appetite-elderly/
https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/family-care/reasons-why-seniors-lose-their-appetite-and-whats-the-solution-to-it/
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Edenton, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. Call (252) 335-1409
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Canton, Edenton, Ahoskie, South Mills, Moyock, Windsor, Plymouth, Manteo, Kill Devil Hills and Elizabeth City in North Carolina.
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