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10 razões pelas quais os idosos perdem o apetite

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.

    Source: https://dailycaring.com/why-do-seniors-lose-their-appetites/

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