Malnourishment is something that far too many senior citizens deal with at some point. Some of the causes are physical and may be situations that you can help your elderly family member to resolve.
She Feels Full Too Quickly
One of the things you might hear from your aging family member when you try to prompt her to eat is that she’s not hungry or that she’s already full. She does need a certain amount of calories, vitamins, and other nutrients in her daily diet. If she’s not able to take in much food, there may be a reason connected to a health issue. Make sure to address this with her doctor.
Her Digestion Has Changed
As your senior ages, her ability to digest the foods that she eats changes. Her body produces fewer digestive enzymes and her stomach has less digestive acid as well. Her inability to tolerate certain foods could be one of her first indications that her digestion is changing. Also, quite a bit of the digestive system works along with movement and your elderly family member’s activity levels have likely decreased, making it that much harder for her digestive system to operate.
Joint and Mobility Issues Make Cooking and Eating Difficult
If your elderly family member isn’t able to move or stand easily, that creates problems for her when she’s trying to do something as simple as making dinner for herself. Making meals can take so much more energy than your elderly family member expects it to take. As a result, she can end up eating foods that aren’t so good for her or just not eating at all. Finding a way to ensure she’s got food that’s easy to eat is crucial.
Her Senses Don’t Function the Same
Changes in your elderly family member’s senses affect her ability to do all sorts of things, including eating. If her vision is diminishing then she can’t see her food as well anymore. Without her sense of smell or taste, food definitely isn’t as appealing as it was. Trying new recipes can help, but that can be frustrating, too. Having help with cooking from home care services providers can give her a chance to try new recipes without wearing herself out.
She Can’t Chew or Swallow Well Anymore
Dental problems, trouble swallowing, and anything else that makes chewing difficult means that your senior’s food choices might not be all that appealing for her. They also might not be the most nutritious options available to her. Regular dental checkups can help to spot these issues earlier on.
Helping your elderly family member to work around any of these and other issues she’s experiencing can keep her from experiencing malnourishment. There may be other issues affecting her ability to eat as well, so it is important to talk to her doctor about your concerns so that you can find solutions.
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Home Care Services in Manhasset NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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