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Causes And Symptoms For Malnutrition In Older Adults

Good nutrition is important to senior health — yet many older adults are at risk of inadequate nutrition.

Whether your loved is in a nursing home or lives alone, you shold know the causes and signs of nutrition problems, as well as steps you can take to ensure a nutrient-rich diet for them.

Malnutrition in older adults can lead to various health problems, according to the Mayo Clinic, including: fatigue, depression, weak immune system, which increases the risk of infections, low red blood cell count, muscle weakness, which can lead to falls and fractures, digestive, lung and heart problems and poor skin integrity.

Good nutrition is especially important for older adults who are seriously ill and those who have dementia or have lost weight. These older adults are more likely to be admitted to a hospital or long term care facility and are vulnerable to post-surgical complications and other problems linked to poor nutrition.

The causes of malnutrition may seem straightforward: too little food, a diet lacking in nutrients, digestion problems related to getting older. But malnutrition is often caused by a combination of physical, social and psychological issues. These include:

Health problems. Older adults often have health problems that can lead to decreased appetite or trouble eating, such as chronic illness, use of certain medications, trouble chewing due to dental issues, problems swallowing or difficulty absorbing nutrients. A recent hospitalization
may be accompanied by loss of appetite or other nutrition problems. In other cases, a diminished sense of taste and smell decreases appetite.

Limited income and reduced social contact. Some older adults may have trouble affording groceries, especially if they're taking expensive medications. Those who eat alone may not enjoy meals, causing them to lose interest in cooking and eating.

Depression. Grief, loneliness, failing health, lack of mobility and other factors may contribute to depression — causing loss of appetite among older adults.

Alcoholism. Alcoholism is a leading contributor to malnutrition — decreasing appetite and vital nutrients and frequently serving as a substitute for meals.

Restricted diets. Older adults often have dietary restrictions, including limits on salt, fat, protein and sugar. Although such diets can help manage many medical conditions, they can also be bland and unappealing.

The signs of malnutrition in older adults may be hard to spot, especially in people who don't seem at risk. To uncover problems before they become more serious:

Observe your loved one's eating habits. Spend time with an older loved one during meals at home, not just on special occasions. If your loved one lives alone, find out who buys his or her food. If your loved one is in a hospital or long term care facility, visit during mealtimes.

Look for physical problems. Red flags for malnutrition might include poor wound healing, easy bruising, dental difficulties and weight loss. Watch for signs of weight loss, such as changes in how clothing fits.

Know your loved one's medications. Many drugs affect appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption. Consult their doctor if you have concerns.

For more on medical safety issues, see the library of articles by Daytona Beach nursing home injury lawer.



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