It’s estimated that around 16% of Americans aged 65 or older eat under 1000 calories a day. This also means that almost everyone in this category is at risk for malnutrition.
Your body doesn’t require as many calories as it once did as you age. While this is true, it does require more B vitamins, calcium, and protein than it did in the past (along with other essential nutrients). Seniors are especially at risk of malnutrition because their dietary needs differ from younger adults. Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware of these differences – including their caregivers.
There is some good news. Caregivers can take some practical steps to help ensure their senior loved one or patient does not become malnourished.
Signs of Malnutrition in Seniors
There are a few signs and indications that your senior loved one or patient may be struggling with malnourishment. These include:
Unintentional weight loss
Lower body weight
Muscle weakness
Clothes that no longer fit well
Falls
Lack of energy or depression
Issues with chewing and swallowing
Issues with memory
Old or expired food in the home
Dry, cracked skin
Frequent illness
Not remembering the last time they ate
If you notice these signs, it is time to act and help ensure your senior loved one or patient begins eating a healthy diet that will ensure they get the nutrients they need.
How You Can Help
Some of the ways that you can help a senior who is malnourished or at risk of this can be found here.
Prepare Food for the Senior
It’s a good idea to make sure the senior has food ready to eat at all times. You should try to focus on foods that will be easy for them to swallow, like smoothies, yogurt, soups, and other softer food items.
Pick Up Groceries
Pick up groceries each week for a senior or arrange to have them delivered to their home. If needed, help them put all the items away. You can also order a meal delivery program for them, which ensures they have everything they need for healthy meals three times a day.
Ensure They Have Access to Snacks
You should make sure that seniors have access to healthy snacks for in-between meals. This should include things like seeds, nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein.
Encourage Friends and Family Members to Visit
If you provide a senior with senior care services, you should encourage family and friends to visit when you aren’t there. Not only will this help with making sure the senior is eating, but also ensure they don’t fall or experience some other type of accident while you are away.
Making Sure a Senior Doesn’t Experience Malnourishment
As a caregiver for a senior, it’s your job to help ensure the senior is happy and healthy. This includes making sure they eat enough to avoid malnourishment. Keep the tips above in mind to ensure a senior does not experience this problem.
