Fighting Appetite Loss in the Elderly

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Anorexia is a term we have all heard before, but most of us associate with a psychological disorder in young females. Anorexia, however, means lack of appetite, and more than 75% of deaths due to anorexia occur in the elderly.

There are many factors that contribute to seniors not getting their required daily nutrition, other than a fear of obesity. Included in these is loss of mobility and losing the capability to make meals. Other factors include loneliness, social isolation, and depression. Physical factors such as reduced appetite, poor dentures, or many medical conditions which decrease hunger levels or swallowing abilities also play a significant role in poor nutrition in the elderly. It is possible that a senior suffering from memory loss may forget to eat. There are also medical conditions and medications that cause poor nutrition absorption, so even if somebody is eating a normal diet, they may not be absorbing all of the necessary nutrients.

It is our job, as caregivers, to make sure that our loved ones or clients are eating a healthy diet. It is also our job to look for the signs of anorexia. Some of those signs are:

  • Thinning hair
  • Weight loss
  • Dizziness/light-headedness/fainting
  • Pale skin
  • Irritability
  • Constant fatigue

There are some things that can be done to prevent anorexia. Keeping a food journal to keep track of meals may aid in maintaining a balanced diet. Making smoothies and juicing fruits and vegetables may help if it is easier for them to ingest liquids. Many supermarkets deliver food orders to homes and there are also meal delivery services targeted towards seniors. There are also quick temporary fixes with nutritional drinks such as Ensure. Hiring a caregiver from a homecare company to prepare meals for your elderly loved one is also a good option. The senior may help cook the meal and have some company, too! Caregivers employed by Caring Hearts Homecare Assistance are even trained in nutrition.

For more information from myageingparent.com on elderly anorexia, click here .