Preventing Malnutrition in Older Adults
Malnutrition is becoming more of a problem as the U.S. population ages. For all older persons, a healthy diet is crucial. It is crucial for older persons who are unwell or have dementia or a chronic illness that has been identified.
When your body doesn't receive enough nutrients from the meals you consume to function correctly, it is said to be malnourished. Fats, carbs, protein, vitamins, and minerals are all examples of nutrients. Your body gets energy from these things, and your muscles get stronger. They aid in tissue growth and repair in your body. They also control physiological processes like breathing and heartbeat.
Malnutrition in elderly people can result in a variety of health issues, such as:
Weight reduction that was unintentional
tiredness and exhaustion (feeling low energy)
Muscle weakness or weakening of muscles. This may result in falls, which may result in fractured bones or fractures.
Depression
Issues with memory
A compromised immune system. This makes it difficult for your body to fight infections.
Anemia
Why does malnutrition occur?
When a person doesn't consume enough wholesome meals, they get malnourished. The quantity and type of food that older persons eat might vary depending on a variety of factors.
These are include:
Health problems.Older persons may experience health issues that impair their ability to eat or lead them to lose their appetite. This may cover chronic disorders like dementia and other ailments. It's possible that they follow rigid diets that make meals taste dull. They could also struggle to chew or swallow meals due to dental issues.
Lack of variety in diet.The body doesn't always get all the nutrients it needs from fast food and processed meals. The requirement for diversity is sometimes neglected as older persons frequently consume the same meals that they like or find simple to prepare.
Some medications may reduce appetite or alter the flavor and aroma of meals.
Low income.An elderly person could have a fixed income. To assist manage some medical issues, they can be paying for pricey medications. They could struggle to afford groceries, especially the necessary healthful items.
Elderly people with dementia or physical limitations might not be able to go grocery shopping or prepare meals for themselves. Additionally, they could forget to eat and need to be reminded.
Social issues.Meals can be shared with others. We could begin to lose friends and relatives as we become older. Older folks who frequently dine by themselves may get bored with preparing and dining.
Alcoholism might make you less hungry and interfere with your body's ability to absorb nutrients from meals.
Depression in older people can cause a decrease of appetite.
Adults who are undernourished frequently visit their doctor, the hospital, and sometimes the emergency department due to these health issues. They take longer to recuperate from surgery or other treatments than people who have access to a healthy diet.
Path to improved health
Consider using some of the following to help your loved one's nutrition:
Encourage people to eat healthier foods.Nutrient-rich diets including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats are the healthiest options. Assist your loved one in reducing the amount of salt, sugar, alcohol, and solid fats they consume. Offer suggestions for healthier alternatives to less healthful meals.
Snacking.Healthy snacks are a fantastic way to supplement your diet with extra calories and nutrients in between meals. For elderly folks who eat meals rapidly and feel full afterward, it could be especially beneficial.
Make food taste good again. Herbs and spices may add flavor to plain dishes if your loved one is on a limited diet. Just keep in mind to stay away from herb or spice combinations with a lot of salt.
Consider adding supplements to your loved one’s diet. An energy shake or other dietary supplements could be helpful for them. Consult their doctor about these possibilities.
Encourage exercise. Your loved one's appetite can be improved and their bones and muscles can be kept healthy with even a little activity.
Plan social activities. Make eating and working out together. Walk around the block with your loved one. Encourage them to go to lunch with a friend or neighbor. Seniors can receive discounts at several eateries. There could be a senior center in your neighborhood that provides lunch. The time and location are ideal for mingling.
Talk to your loved one’s hospital, retirement community or nursing home. The fact that your loved one is underweight can go unnoticed by the professionals. Draw their attention to it and develop a strategy to boost nutrition.
Things to consider
As you become older, maintaining your health and diet might seem challenging. If you are caring for a loved one, speak with their primary care physician and request assistance as needed. You can discuss your child's risk for malnutrition, medical issues, and medications with the doctor.
Making sure your loved one is eating properly may require your assistance. Home health aides can assist with grocery shopping and meal preparation. Consult the council about aging in your area as well as other services for seniors and civic initiatives like Meals on Wheels. They might assist you in taking care of your loved one.
