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Aging brings many physiological and lifestyle changes that can cause a loss of appetite. Yet sometimes the culprit is a serious problem requiring treatment. If you notice changes in your loved one’s eating habits, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, or general malaise, the first step is to consult their doctor. We asked registered dietitian Heather Schwartz to share her advice if your aging parent or partner has lost interest in eating.
There are several aging-related reasons why the elderly stop eating like they used to. “I remind my clients often that a loss of appetite and thirst is a normal part of aging and doesn’t always mean something is wrong,” says Schwartz, who counsels patients at Stanford Hospital and Clinics in Palo Alto, California. Typical reasons include:
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Sometimes lack of interest in food is not an effect of aging. Common health problems that can decrease hunger are:
Less common, but serious, underlying causes of a lack of appetite are:
Whether your loved one’s lack of appetite is because of typical aging or a health problem – which should be treated by a health professional — there are a few practical things you can do to help them get enough nutrition.
One side effect of medications is dry mouth, which means the salivary glands aren’t producing enough saliva. “Chewing sugarless gum, brushing often or using an oral rinse before meals can improve taste sensation, and ultimately nutrient intake,” Schwartz says.
Some medications, meanwhile, make foods taste metallic. If your loved one says their meat is tasing “off” or metallic, switch to other protein sources such as dairy or beans. If water doesn’t taste right to them, add herbs or sliced fruits or vegetables such as lemon or cucumber.
The thought of eating alone can be unappealing for people of all ages. For seniors, mobility issues, death of a spouse, and lack of transportation means they’re less likely to share meals with others. Senior centers, temples or churches, and community centers may have weekly dinners and other mealtime events for seniors, says Schwartz. Encourage meal “dates” with friends, family, or caregivers.
Huge helpings can be intimidating. Instead, focus on providing calorie-rich options. “I ask caregivers not to increase the volume of food they serve to seniors with low appetites,” Schwartz says. “Rather, increase the nutrient density of the foods they serve.” Avocados, olive oil, and peanut butter are examples of nutrient-dense foods packed with “healthy fats.”
“Our bodies tend to thrive off regularity, as do our hunger and thirst signals, so when we stray from our usual patterns, so does our appetite,” Schwartz says. If your loved one isn’t used to a mealtime routine, start slowly by introducing a small beverage and/or snack during a normal mealtime. This can help stimulate the body’s hunger signals.
Some seniors have had success with prescription appetite stimulants. Your loved one’s doctor can discuss the pros and cons, including side effects and appropriateness given their overall health condition.
Becoming less interested in food can be a side effect of normal aging. But by seeking medical advice and taking steps to promote healthier eating, you can help your loved can get the nutrients they need.
The following lifestyle and dietary changes may help some people increase their appetite naturally:
Getting regular exercise increases the amount of energy a person burns. In turn, this can increase the body’s need for fuel, which boosts hunger levels.
Proper planning can help people consume enough calories each day. To do this:
To do this, people can try one or more of the following:
Older adults or people with limited mobility can face challenges when it comes to appetite and weight loss.
The following tips may help address some of these challenges:
Loss of appetite can occur as the result of aging, medical conditions, or the side effect of medications. However, it is important to address this issue, as it can increase the risk of illness and other complications.
Trying appetite stimulants can be an effective way to boost a person’s desire to eat. Options include medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
It is important to see a doctor for appetite loss that persists for more than a few days. A doctor can determine the underlying cause and recommend a course of action.
Claire Samuels is a content writer at A Place for Mom. She worked with senior living communities throughout the Midwest before pivoting to writing. She’s passionate about sharing ways of living well at any age.
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