It’s a sad but true reality that older adults often experience malnutrition. The US Department of Health and Human Services estimated that nearly 50% of elderly Americans suffer from malnutrition, and around 30% of the elderly patients admitted to hospitals are reported to be undernourished, thereby lengthening their hospitalization.
If you suspect that your aging parents might be undernourished, read on to learn more about detecting malnutrition in your elderly loved one, the possible causes, and how to handle it.
Causes of Malnutrition in Aging Adults
Poverty is a major factor in the malnutrition of elderly persons. Being able to purchase anything more than the basic ingredients may be challenging due to the expenses of healthcare and medication prescriptions alone. Numerous elderly people simply lack the means to sustain a nutritious diet due to limited savings and low retirement incomes.
An elderly person may not get enough nourishment for a variety of reasons besides having limited resources. Malnutrition in older adults can be caused by a number of factors like:
- Adverse side effects from the medication they’re on.
- Eating and swallowing difficulties due to a health condition.
- A loss of motivation for cooking due to decreased energy levels and mobility.
- Shifting food preferences as they age.
- Restricting prescribed diets with only low-salt, low-fat, and low-sugar foods, that make mealtimes unenjoyable.
The Risks of Malnutrition in Aging Adults
Eating poorly is unfortunately linked to a number of problems, most of which compound the health issues that older persons already frequently experience. Sudden excessive weight loss, muscle decline, frailty, lethargy, compromised immune systems, and depression are all consequences of malnutrition. Elderly folks who are undernourished are also more likely to fall, which might jeopardize their independent living safety and freedom.
Detecting Malnutrition in Your Aging Parents
Finding the signs of undernourishment may need some investigating as they might resemble issues that older persons may already be experiencing. During a regular visitation, spend some few minutes discretely taking a stock of their fridge and pantry if your aging parents are residing alone. Pay attention to their consumption of green veggies, fresh fruits, lean proteins, and healthy grains when you’re with them. Additionally, remain alert to any significant weight fluctuations, and note down the medicines your aging parents are consuming because some drugs might result in declining appetites.
Taking Care of an Undernourished Elderly Loved One
As soon as you realize your aging parent is suffering from malnutrition, assist them in getting medical attention. Ensure their doctor is informed of any eating difficulties you’ve noticed. A family physician or dietitian can offer advice and feasible methods to enhance nutritional intake while reducing the consumption of artificial sweeteners, processed ingredients, and fatty foods. If your elderly parents have unique dietary requirements or restrictions that make it tough for them to savor their food, persuade them to try new spices and herbs to add zest to their plain dishes!
Assisted Living can also be a good alternative for your aging parents if they have trouble maintaining a balanced diet. An assisted living community will help make sure they get enough nourishment, regardless of their dietary requirements, eating troubles, or simply not wishing to laboriously cook nutritional lunches every day.
