Coping With Loss of Appetite in Old Age

There are many reasons why seniors tend to lose their appetite, such as slowing metabolism rate, changes in the sense of smell and taste, gastrointestinal changes, side-effects from medication, etc. However, it does not change the fact that their body needs enough nourishment to keep them healthy through their golden years & help them effectively deal with various age-related medical conditions. So, here are some ways to stimulate their appetite.

• Create a Mealtime Routine 

If your senior loved one does not have a set eating schedule, make sure they start eating at the same times every day. Creating a mealtime routine would train their body as well as mind to expect & look forward to an upcoming meal. 

• Offer To Eat With Them 

According to studies, loneliness and depression are associated with loss of appetite in the elderly. So, if you offer to eat meals with them on a regular basis, you will see a gradual increase in their appetite. Apart from this, you can encourage them for meal “dates” with their close friends or caregivers as well. 

• Exercise Regularly 

The more you exercise, the more energy you burn off; resulting in your body craving more fuel in the form of nutrient-rich foods. So, if you want to stimulate the appetite of your loved one, encourage them to make exercising a part of their daily routine. 

• Choose the Right Food Options 

Instead of filling up the plate of your senior loved one with a lot of food that might trigger their appetite problems, focus on including nutrient-rich food options which can be served in smaller portions. Avocados, peanut butter, and olive oil are some of the examples of nutrient-rich foods that are packed with healthy fats, and are good for the elderly.

• Include Liquids & Softer Foods in Their Diet 

Many seniors have difficulty chewing and prefer liquids or softer foods over something that’s probably hard to bite. In this case, you can include all kinds of smoothies, broths, soups, and bottled nutritional drinks in their diet. 

Getting your senior parent or grandparent with no appetite to eat can be quite challenging. If you think a caregiver can help manage their diet, reach out to Helping Hand Nursing Services today! As the leading senior care agency in Lakeland, Florida, we have the best caregivers to provide seniors with the care and support they need while aging in place. Visit https://www.helpinghandnursingservices.com/ or call @ (863) 616-1888 to learn about our senior care plans!