People of all ages can struggle with healthy eating, but for the elderly, proper nutrition can make a huge difference in their physical health and well-being. A healthy diet can help prevent constipation, weight gain or loss, reduce the side effects of certain medications, and so much more. If your loved one suffers from a chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, monitoring sugar or salt intake is a crucial part of managing their disease. Understanding some of the struggles your loved one is facing when it comes to healthy eating can help you help them make better choices.
Wondering why your aging loved one isn’t that interested in food? Anything that can affect your sense of smell can affect your appetite, and according to NIH Senior Health, many adults over age 60 experience some loss of smell as a normal part of aging. In addition, certain types of medications and some cancer treatments can disrupt a person’s sense of smell or taste. Try making food more flavorful by using spices rather than more salt or sugar.
Many elderly spend mealtimes alone, which can lead to loneliness and a lack of desire to cook. Dentures or other dental problems can make eating certain types of foods difficult, and having a very restrictive diet because of a chronic health condition are additional reasons your loved one may be losing interest in eating. Whenever possible, invite your loved one over for dinner or treat them to a brunch or lunch out at their favorite restaurant. You will be able to keep tabs on what their food choices are as well as provide loving companionship, which can help stave off depression.
If you are worried that your loved one isn’t eating as well as they should, schedule an appointment with their physician. Their physician can provide recommendations based on the various medications or treatments your loved one is receiving and help monitor their health.
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