The normal aging process instigates changes throughout the body. Perhaps the most important change seniors undergo relates to nutrition. As a body ages, so does its nutritional requirements. Seniors may need to adjust vitamin and mineral intake depending on their gender, metabolic rate and for disease management purposes. Depending on a senior’s individual needs, caloric intake may need to be monitored to ensure good health.
As if these changes are not enough, other barriers of healthy eating may arise. Taste buds change with age making some foods less desirable. Medication and even some medical conditions seniors experience can cause loss of appetite. Some seniors may feel less apt to prepare healthy meals for themselves. Preparing meals and eating alone can be lonely. They may find cooking for one cumbersome and resort to quick meals with little nutritional value.
For these reasons, seniors are at risk for malnutrition as well as subsequent physical and mental complications from lack of calories and nutrients.
The benefits of healthy eating are an important part of overall good health. Healthy, well-balanced diets support physical strength, mental wellbeing, increased immunity, and cardiovascular health. Those who consume regular nutritious meals are less susceptible to fatigue and bouts of depression, and are able to maintain adequate weight control. For seniors, healthy eating becomes imperative in sustaining independent lifestyles within their own homes.
Recognizing Hunger or Malnutrition in Seniors.
Sometimes the signs of hunger or under-nutrition are hard to detect.
[1] Watch for physical problems. Look for bruising, dental difficulties, or sudden or sustained weight gain or weight loss.
[2] Ask seniors about their eating habits. How have their tastes or preferences changed?
[3] Talk to a doctor. Discuss nutritional needs or problems specific to the loved ones’ unique needs or management of diseases
[4] Check with a pharmacist. They can warn you of the potential for drug-food interactions.
[5] Have your visits during mealtime. This is the best time to observe eating habits first-hand.
Source: http://mymaturetimes.com
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