Is my family member at risk of poor nutrition?
Healthy meals and good nutrition is essential for healthy ageing but many older people find it difficult to eat a nutritious diet.
Risk factors for malnutrition
Malnutrition can often be prevented. Knowing some of the risk factors for poor nutrition can help prevent the many health problems related to malnutrition.
The following risk factors can contribute to malnutrition in older people.
Chronic Illness: Many older people have chronic medical conditions that may affect the way nutrients are absorbed by the body or their ability to shop, prepare and eat nutritious meals. Conditions such as dementia, stroke and cancer can compound any existing problems with eating and drinking.
Problems getting food and fluid to their mouth: Conditions such as Arthritis and Parkinson's disease can cause loss of strength and movement in the hands making it difficult for an older person to use cutlery or even get food to the mouth.
Nausea: Some medications can cause nausea around meal times. Discuss with a pharmacist or doctor how meal times or medications can be adjusted to prevent nausea before meals.
Depression: Depression frequently goes unnoticed in older people and can cause lack of appetite. If the person you are caring for appears withdrawn, is no longer interested in meals or their favourite food they could be depressed.
Difficulty preparing food: Limited mobility and frailty can make it difficult for an older person to shop, prepare and cook food. Older men living alone who previously never cooked can find it especially difficult to prepare a nutritious meal for one.
Lack of social contact: Preparing food for one person and continuously eating alone can be socially isolating and lonely. Sharing a meal with others is essential for well-being and promotes enjoyment of food.
Limited income: Some older people with limited incomes cannot always afford to purchase fresh nutritious food and may make poor food choices due to lack of income.
Hospitalisation or illness: Acute illness and recent surgery can place considerable strain on an older person contributing to lack of appetite, weakness and nausea. Recovery can be lengthy and it can take time to become interested in food again.
Lack of taste and smell: Our sense of taste and smell can diminish with age, certain conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and some medications make food less enjoyable.
Trouble chewing and swallowing: Poor fitting dentures, mouth ulcers, dental problems and gum disease can create problems with eating and drinking. A dry mouth from medications and changes in taste can contribute to lack of interest in food or difficulty eating.
Related articles
References
Malnutrition and seniors: When a relative doesn't eat enough
Accessed 2008,
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/senior-health/HA00066
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The human body uses up to 60% of all energy in maintaining normal body functions, so it essential to eat healthy and nutritious meals daily even if you are not being very active.