With the holidays coming up, you might be thinking about festive meals and family gatherings focused on favorite foods and traditions. But what about the other parts of the year? Is everyone in your family—particularly elderly loved ones—getting proper nutrition on an everyday basis? While holiday meals may be an exception, there are numerous nutritional struggles for seniors that many quietly battle with for a variety of reasons. The first step to helping older adults stay nourished and healthy year-round is learning about the challenges they are facing.
Health Conditions and Medications
For many older adults, chronic health conditions as well as the medications used to treat them play a substantial role in their battle with malnutrition. Disorders such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, or digestive tract disorders can limit food intake or lower the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. In addition, medications commonly prescribed for these conditions may have side effects including nausea, a decreased appetite, or altered taste, which can cause a lack of interest in food.
In many cases, mental health conditions like anxiety and depression also contribute to malnutrition. When older loved ones are feeling isolated or emotionally overwhelmed, they might not have the drive to make meals or eat regularly. Addressing both physical and mental health issues is essential to make sure older adults can maintain proper nutrition.
Grief and Other Complications From Losing a Spouse
The death of a partner can have a profound impact on eating habits, and even more so if the older adult relied on their partner for the preparation of meals. This is particularly common for men who might not have been the main cook in the family. After losing a significant other, they might not have the skills or experience needed to cook for themselves, ultimately causing reliance on processed or convenience foods that do not have vital nutritional elements.
Loneliness and grief can further exacerbate this issue. Meals that were once shared with a loved one now feel empty, and the motivation to prepare healthy, balanced meals diminishes. Over time, this can result in poor eating habits and nutritional deficiencies. Ensuring your loved one has support in learning to make simple, nutritious meals or arranging for meal deliveries can help alleviate these challenges.
Mobility and Transportation Barriers
Access to healthy food also is a significant barrier that numerous elderly individuals face. Mobility limitations, like arthritis or balance issues, can make it hard for seniors to go to the grocery store or carry heavy bags of groceries. Those who reside in rural areas or are no longer able to drive might also have trouble with transportation, making it hard to get fresh, healthy food on a consistent basis.
While grocery delivery services can be found in many areas, elderly individuals may not be confident with technology or may find these types of services too expensive. In addition, some seniors may rely on food pantries or other community resources, but these often provide non-perishable products that are less nutrient-dense than fresh produce or lean proteins.
The Importance of Support and Resources
So what can you do if you suspect an older loved one is having difficulty maintaining proper nutrition?
- Take a look at MyPlate for Older Adults for helpful recommendations.
- Be aware of signs: losing weight, weakness, or a lack of interest in food.
- Address any underlying issues by scheduling a checkup with the doctor.
Among the best ways to help is contacting Superior Senior Home Care. Our team can:
- Provide transportation and accompaniment to pick up groceries (or take care of food shopping for the person).
- Share in mealtimes so that they are more enjoyable.
- Plan and prepare delicious, nutritious meals.
- And much more!
Contact us online or call us at 805-737-4357 any time for more information on our home care services in Santa Maria, Lompoc, Nipomo, and throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.