Combatting Senior Malnutrition
Malnutrition is more something you are likely to consider as a third-world problem or a result of unhealthy eating habits than a regular issue, but the truth is that one of the most nutritionally deficient groups in this country is actually the elderly. In fact, it is estimated that fifty percent of American seniors suffer from some level of malnutrition. The prevalence of this problem has little to do with socioeconomic status or quality of life, and far more to do with the condition of aging itself.
To put it simply, the most common cause of malnutrition in elder adults isn’t actually a diet deficient in nutrients; it’s in a body deficient in processing them. Both acute and chronic disorders have potential risks in decreasing the body’s ability to properly absorb and use the necessary vitamins and calories. The medications to treat these conditions can also cause similar issues, not only in actual ingestion, but in side effects such as appetite suppression. Restricted diets to treat these illnesses also pose a major problem.
With age comes certain physiological changes, a number of which can contribute to malnutrition as well. It’s extremely common for one’s sense of taste and smell to diminish as they get older, and with that comes a congruent decline in the enjoyment of food. Lack of appetite is also prevalent, either as a natural consequence of age or because of medications and medical conditions, as mentioned previously.
Those with dementia are at even higher risk for malnutrition or dehydration than the rest of the elder community. Because of altered cognitive function, seniors can develop a decreased awareness of hunger and thirst, or even simply forget to eat entirely. Remembering to buy groceries or how to prepare recipes cause further issues. There are even actual dangers related to the preparation of the food, as it is entirely likely a dish may be forgotten on the stove or oven, resulting in a fire or other accident.
Another common obstacle is even more fundamental: the simple act of eating itself. Difficulty chewing and swallowing is extremely common in seniors, and those with these issues are less likely to complete meals due to their struggle. Dental issues can cause discomfort and even pain when trying to eat certain dishes, such as those that are particularly hot or cold. Even using utensils poses a problem for those with arthritis, history of stroke, or other conditions that affect dexterity.
In the same vein, other physical issues can result in secondary malnutrition. Mobility issues and chronic pain restrict one’s ability - and inclination - to access food, and may result in choosing to skip a meal rather than weather further discomfort. Seniors who live alone are most vulnerable to this, although even those in care facilities or where meals are arranged by another party may abstain, as even getting to a dining room can be a huge undertaking for someone with a medical condition.
Psychological troubles also play a role. Loneliness and depression are well-known problems in the senior community, but less well-known is their capacity to cause changes in diet, as well. Eating alone, whether by choice or by circumstance, lowers enjoyment of meals in more social adults, and also leads to a lessened desire to cook or shop for ingredients. This becomes even more pronounced when it comes to depression, which itself naturally suppresses appetite as well as the will to perform basic daily functions.
All these issues and more are serious contributors to the expanding problem of malnutrition. The question, then, is: how do we fix it? Fortunately, there are a variety of tactics to help increase appetite, add missing nutrients, and otherwise add to the healthiness of meals.
Planning meals with nutrient-rich foods is the most obvious answer, and also the simplest. Fish, whole grains, vegetables, lean protein, and vegetables are well-known sources of essential minerals and vitamins. These can be supplemented with nutritional drinks and daily vitamins, to maximize the benefits. Because everyone’s individual needs are different, consulting a physician or nutritionist on a specific plan of action will be most beneficial.
One of the causes mentioned earlier was a decrease in taste and smell. To combat this, using strong flavors and spices in recipes can regenerate interest in eating.
Smaller meals and frequent snacks are also helpful. Eating more often but less at a time has been shown to actually be beneficial to people of all ages, but is particularly useful when applied to seniors who have gastrointestinal issues that might cause discomfort when eating, or with those who have a loss of or decreased appetite. Someone reluctant to eat is far more likely to concede to more manageable portions than a larger meal that may seem an obstacle to them. Eating less but more often provides more sustainable energy, as well.
What all of this boils down to is this: malnutrition has a variety of causes, but it also has a variety of treatments. The most important thing is to be attentive and consistent. If you have a senior in your life that you feel is at risk, be sure to watch for signs such as weight loss, lethargy, skin and hair changes, and increased hospitalizations or doctor’s visits. Always be sure to alert your loved one’s physician and the staff at any community where they may be staying, as well. They are your best allies in making sure those close to you live full and happy lives. And who knows? You might pick up some tips for yourself, too.
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8399049/
https://acl.gov/news-and-events/acl-blog/combatting-senior-malnutrition
Image by Devon Breen from Pixabay