A slow decrease in appetite is a normal part of aging. Older adults experience lower energy levels and take part in less physical activity. If your aging loved one is refusing to eat and experiencing extreme weight loss, this might be a cause for concern. Read on to learn more about the causes and solutions for a loss of appetite in older adults!
Causes of Loss Of Appetite
It is emotionally stressful for the caregiver when a loved one does not want to eat. However, there are many reasons why older people will lose their appetite and it is perfectly normal. The resting metabolic rate for older people decreases because of lower levels of hormones and because the elderly as less active in the later years. Changes in their senses make food taste different, having problems with dentures, medication side effects, or even loneliness can result in a loss of appetite.
However, there are some cases where appetite loss is a sign of a more serious condition. When there is no desire to eat or there is weight loss, there could be an underlying medical cause. This is especially true if your loved one feels fatigued along with the loss of appetite.
Some of the medical reasons that cause appetite loss include:
- Thyroid disorders
- Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
- Hepatitis or chronic liver disease
- Kidney failure
- Cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
You will want to reach out to a doctor if you notice that your loved one has a significantly decreased appetite and is experiencing unintended weight loss.
Solutions for Stimulating Appetite
Stimulating appetite in your loved one can be done using a few different methods. The first one is to enjoy a meal together or invite your loved one to have meals with other people. Research shows that older adults who eat with other people tend to eat more and they eat healthier as well. Next, you have to take note that your loved one’s taste buds are changing. You have to prepare nutritious meals that are colorful, bright, and full of vitamins and minerals. Don’t overwhelm your loved ones with huge portions. Set a schedule for regular meals to make it part of the routine to eat. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner should be served at the same time every day.
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After knowing more about the loss of appetite in older adults, you might want to stay in a senior living community where you will be provided with delicious and nutritious meals. Feel free to contact us today for more information!
