When discussing malnutrition, people often think those suffering from malnutrition will be underweight. However, malnutrition in seniors may look very different. Working with companion care at home can help spot signs of malnutrition and ensure seniors receive a well-balanced diet and the daily activity needed to maintain wellness.
Understanding Malnutrition in Seniors
Chronic diseases and illnesses commonly cause the bulk of malnutrition in seniors in the United States. Malnourished seniors often have a complex mix of medical, social, and psychological problems, ranging from depression-related appetite loss to transportation barriers to the grocery store.
Moreover, the indicators of age, including unintentional weight loss, feeling weak or exhausted, losing one’s appetite, swelling or fluid retention, and being able to eat only in tiny amounts, can be mimicked by the symptoms of disease-related malnutrition. This can make it difficult to pinpoint what is happening. With companion care at home assistance, navigating the needs of seniors becomes easier.
Factors That May Contribute to Malnutrition in Seniors
Senior malnutrition may be caused by a variety of factors, including swallowing problems, dental issues, mobility problems, acute and chronic illnesses, and failure to fulfill increasing nutrient needs, such as eating enough protein. Many seniors do not know that their ability to process proteins decreases as they age, making protein intake more important as they age
Another factor contributing to malnutrition for seniors living at home is the inability to keep track of their nutritional status. Inadequate nutrition in seniors is also a result of loneliness, melancholy, inability to prepare meals for oneself, difficulty getting to stores, and low income
These issues can be significantly decreased with assistance and planning from a supportive care team. Adding companion care at home can ensure that dietary needs are met through healthy meal planning and cooking. Seniors get the added advantage of socialization during meal preparation and eating, which is vital for decreasing feelings of loneliness.
Possible Malnutrition Signs in Seniors
As stated above, weight loss is not the tried and true indicator of malnutrition, but it is something loved ones should pay attention to. If seniors begin to lose weight for no apparent reason, talk with them about their appetite and discuss concerns with a medical professional. Other signs to look for are listed below.
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of interest in eating or drinking
- Excess fatigue
- Increased incidence of illness with a longer recovery time than normal
- Loss of focus
- Irritability and mood swings
- Feeling cold more often than usual
- Diet Changes to Combat Malnutrition
The best way to combat malnutrition is to prevent it from occurring. Diets that prevent malnutrition for seniors should focus on calorie-dense foods, eating more often, and adding liquid calories between meals. In-home care can assist with this through monitoring, meal planning, and cooking when needed.
This advice might include the addition of protein shakes, increasing dairy intake when feasible, and ensuring that seniors snack throughout the day. Medical professionals can assist with advice on foods that provide the needed nutrients.
Malnutrition is only one issue that seniors face as they age. It is preventable, but with the right amount of support in the home. Companion care at home can assist with malnutrition and other issues, including decreased mobility or socialization. A well-rounded approach to care will lead to continued health and wellness.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Companion Care at Home in Havertown, PA, please talk to the caring staff at Better Care Home Health Services LLC today. Serving individuals and their families in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery, and Bucks counties. Call Today: (267) 766-5218
Better Care Home Health Services is a family-owned agency dedicated to providing excellent and comprehensive home health care to individuals and families of Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery and Bucks counties. We are honored that God has blessed us with the opportunity to positively impact and change people’s lives. It is our mission to ensure that we provide the very best of care to our clients.
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