10 reasons why older people lose their appetite
Loss of appetite is common in the elderly
Many elderly people resist eating or simply refuse to eat due to loss of appetite.
This is an issue that must be analyzed, because elderly people, in particular, need balanced nutrition to stay as healthy and active as possible.
But how do you convince someone with no appetite to eat? And why do elderly people lose their appetite in the first place?
To help you find out why this might happen, we explain some types of health problems that can cause loss of appetite.
First, eliminate serious health problems or side effects of the medication
If your family member suddenly loses their appetite, it's important to talk to your doctor. A visit may be necessary to rule out serious health problems or side effects to medication.
Some serious illnesses cause changes in taste and appetite, including:
- Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Mouth and throat infections or gum disease
- Salivary gland disorders
Side effects of some medications , such as dry mouth or a metallic taste, can change the taste of food or water, which can also cause loss of appetite.
10 reasons for loss of appetite in the elderly
If the loss of appetite is not caused by a health problem or medication, here are 10 other reasons why someone might not want to eat.
1. Lack of exercise
Regular exercise and activities help increase your appetite. Sometimes you need to work up an appetite before eating.
2. Dehydration
Being dehydrated can cause loss of appetite.
Many elderly people do not consume enough fluids and become dehydrated more easily due to age-related changes or medication.
3. Lack of routine
Adopting a daily routine where meals are eaten at the same time every day can help your body feel ready to eat at those times.
4. Inability to prepare meals
Elderly people living independently may not eat properly because preparing their own meals becomes very difficult.
5. Loss of flavor
6. Difficulty chewing, swallowing or eating independently
If eating has become too difficult or unpleasant, many older people simply don't want to eat.
These problems can be caused by:
- Normal aging (body wear and tear)
- Dental problems
- Medication
- Medical treatments, such as surgery
- Stroke, dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease or other health conditions
7. Sensitivity to smells
Sometimes people develop a sensitivity to the smell of certain foods that can make them feel sick or unable to eat.
8. Depression or loneliness
Depression affects 1 in 10 elderly people and can often cause loss of appetite.
Many people may also not enjoy mealtimes because they have no one to eat with, intensifying feelings of loneliness.
9. Loss of control
When you depend on other people for everything, it's easy to feel a loss of control over your own life.
Sometimes, not being able to choose what to eat makes someone not want to eat.
10. Mealtimes are unpleasant
If mealtime has become a time for disagreements or arguments about how to eat, the person may associate food with unpleasant situations and avoid them.