How to Spot Malnutrition in Seniors and how to Help them?

Malnutrition occurs when the body doesn’t get enough nutrients. Our beloved seniors are susceptible to Malnutrition because their dietary needs are different from adults that most of us don’t know.

Malnutrition causes:

• Weakness, Dizziness, Muscle loss,

• Breathing problems,

• longer recovery time from illness or infections

• Chest or respiratory infections

• Hypothermia (A significant and potentially dangerous drop in body temperature) etc.

Causes of Malnutrition in seniors

Aging and change in lifestyle and circumstances can make our beloved seniors malnourished. Let us highlight some of those

• Senior people can’t buy foods that will provide them with proper nutrition due to the monetary crisis

• They lack the energy to cook food

• They suffer from Dementia and often forget to take their meal

• Certain medications that can decrease appetite

• Dietary restrictions such as a low-fat diet

• Depression

• Trouble eating or swallowing due to gum diseases or other oral problems

Now, let us have close look at how to spot malnutrition in senior loved ones

If you suspect that your senior loved ones may be suffering from malnutrition and they are not disclosing it to you as they don’t want to bother you, some tell-tale signs may help you spot malnutrition in seniors:

• Memory problems

• Lack of energy and depression

• Pale, dry and cracked skin and dull appearance

• Weight loss and loose-fitted clothes

• Slow recovery time for cuts or wounds and frequently falling ill

• Falls and trips

• Muscle weakness and trouble chewing and swallowing

If you spot most of the symptoms in your senior loved ones, then they may be suffering from malnutrition and you need to address this serious issue as soon as possible to help your senior loved ones. Let us focus on how you can help them eat a balanced meal so that they become healthy and active:

• Ensure they eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meat, fish, eggs, and milk enough to get the nutrients necessary for their body. If you don’t have time to buy vegetables or fruits then order online to get them delivered at your home. They should also keep them hydrated by drinking water from time to time.

• If your senior loved ones have problems chewing or swallowing soft foods like soups, yogurts, can help them get the required nutrients

• Prepare meals for them if you get time Add some healthy spices and herbs to help your senior loved ones develop an interest in eating

• Ensure they snack on healthy foods like almonds, walnuts, fruit salads, etc in between meals

• Encourage your senior loved ones to do some movements like they can take a refreshing morning or evening walk or gardening. This will help improve their appetite and also strengthen their body.

• Consult a dietician who can help you with a perfect diet plan for your senior loved ones

• If you are availing of caregiving service from an elder care service in Kolkata for your beloved seniors then ask them to assist your senior loved ones while eating and feeding them if necessary.

This is everything you need to know about malnutrition in seniors and how you can easily spot them and follow some steps to help your seniors feel healthy and active.

Debosree is a professional writer working in the Senior Care Field for quite a long time. She has written many informative blogs and articles on the senior care facilities that are available. He has a great reader base.