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HEALTH
WO R DS : TA N YA F E R B E R
Senior Health Spotlight:
d e t e c t i n g and preventing malnutrition Good nutrition is critical to overall health and well-being, yet many seniors are at risk of inadequate nutrition. As the adult child or caregiver of a senior, you can learn the signs and risks of malnutrition and how to promote a nutrient-rich diet. Malnutrition can lead to various health concerns including:
A weakened immune system which increases the risk of infection.
Poor wound healing.
Muscle weakness and decreased bone mass which can lead to falls and fractures which in turn can lead to more serious medical issues such as trauma, head injuries, fractures, and surgical procedures.
A higher risk of hospitalization and subsequent readmission.
An increased risk of death.
Malnutrition is often caused by a combination of physical, social and psychological issues. For example:
Changes in taste, smell and appetite: Seniors experience these normal age-related changes, making it more difficult to enjoy eating and keep regular eating habits. Illness: Illnesses can contribute to declines in appetite and changes in how the body processes nutrients. Medications: Some medications can affect appetite or the ability to absorb nutrients. Eating Impairments: Difficulty chewing or swallowing, poor dental health, or limited ability in handling silverware can contribute to malnutrition. Cognitive Changes: Behavioral or memory problems from Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia can result in forgetting to eat or not buying groceries. Depression: Grief, loneliness, failing health, lack of mobility and other factors might contribute to depression causing loss of appetite. Social Isolation: Seniors who eat alone might not enjoy meals as before and lose interest in cooking and eating. Special Diets: Dietary restrictions for managing medical conditions such as limits on salt, fat or sugar might also contribute to inadequate eating. Fixed/limited income: Seniors may have trouble affording groceries especially if increased medical needs are causing a strain on their income (i.e., prescription medication costs).
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:: areawomanmagazine.com
Nutrition Monitoring to Prevent Malnutrition As a caregiver or adult child of a senior, you can take steps to monitor nutritional health, watch for weight loss and address risk factors of malnutrition. Consider the following: Monitor weight: Have the senior check his or her weight at home and keep a weekly record. Changes in how clothes fit can also indicate weight loss. Observe habits: Spend mealtimes together to observe eating habits. Note what kinds of food are eaten and how much. Help with meal plans: Help plan healthy meals or prepare meals ahead of time. Prepare extra food and properly store to reheat later. Help prepare a shopping list or shop together and assist with moneysaving shopping choices if income is an issue. Use local services: Contact local service agencies that provide at-home meal deliveries. The local Area Agency on Aging or a county social worker can provide information about services. Make meals social events: Drop by during mealtime or invite the senior to your home for occasional meals. Go out to eat at a restaurant with senior discounts. Encourage regular physical activity: Daily exercise can stimulate appetite and strengthen bones and muscles.