The National Institute of Aging sets the caloric intake for a sedentary woman over 50 at 1,600 daily. Women who get more exercise need 2,000 calories daily. Based on their activity level, men over 50 require 2,000-2,800 calories daily. When an elder loved one won't eat, their caregiver needs to know how to react. Arlington Home Care has some amazing tips for you;
Why Seniors Stop Eating
Oral health issues, including poorly fitting dentures, can make it challenging to eat. Depression could cause your senior loved one to lose their appetite. Some people don't like eating alone. Diminished appetite is a side effect of some medications. An inability to eat could be indicative of a severe medical issue, like dementia.
Helping Older People to Regain Their Appetite
Counseling, consulting a nutritionist, and social eating can all help a senior find the desire to eat.
Psychological Counseling
Psychotherapy addresses depression and other emotional issues that rob a senior of their appetite. Talking to a psychotherapist and attending group counseling sessions provide regular social interaction.
Social Eating
The thought of always eating alone can sap a senior of their appetite. Try to arrange for an older loved one to have company at the table. Eating at a senior center is a source of mealtime companionship.
Talk to a Nutritionist or Dietician
A nutritionist or dietician can pin down and address the causes of reluctant eating. A nutrition expert will create a menu for your loved one that is both healthy and appealing.
Nutritional Supplements
Talk to their doctor about your loved one taking a multi-vitamin. You might also ask about nutrition augmenting shakes. Zinc is an appetite booster. Seniors who don't eat adequately often have a Zinc deficiency.
Encouraging Someone With Dementia to Eat
Home Care Arlington wants you to know that if an older loved one is in the middle or late stage of dementia, they might stop eating. Should this happen, try some of the following strategies to get your loved one to eat.
Explore Medical Causes
Your loved one may not be eating because sensitive teeth, sores in the mouth, and improperly fitting dental appliances make chewing difficult. If your loved one only eats half their food, it could because of poor eyesight. Try turning the plate 180°, so the remaining food is visible. Have a physician examine your loved one for digestive issues.
Use Contrasting Colors
Dementia can make it difficult to see a plate the same color as the table cover, so use contrasting colors. Brightly colored food and dishes can improve appetite.
Exercise
Light exercise increases the appetite. Between meals take your loved one for a walk. Other workout options for someone with dementia include Tai Chi, water aerobics, and household chores.
Serve Light Meals More Often
Six small meals a day rather than three larger meals could encourage your loved one to eat better. Serve finger foods to an older person with diminished motor skills.
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