5 Reasons Why Seniors Don’t Receive Proper Nutrition And Solutions

When people think of Home Delivered Meals or Meals On Wheels for seniors they automatically think homebound seniors who cannot afford food. That is not always the case for many seniors. There can be multiple factors in why a senior is not eating or may not be receiving proper nutrition. The reason varies for each senior and the solution is not always easy. Reasons can range from reduction in sense of smell and taste to not wanting to dine alone.

REDUCTION IN SENSE OF SMELL AND TASTE

As we age our sense of smell and taste decline or change. This can be a problem for seniors and result in a loss of appetite.

Solution

An aromatic technique can increase one’s appetite and overall dining experience. A solution is to use fresh herbs, citrus, spices and extracts. These cooking additives are great alternative to fatty or sugary ingredients.
LOW VISION

Most seniors do experience vision impairments or vision loss as they age. Decreased vision can be a reason for seniors not wanting to eat. It is hard to see the food which causes loss of interest.

Solution

Use colorful foods or clearly separating each food can increase a senior with poor eye sights appetite. Another solution can be serving meals on a plate that is a contrast color to the food. Presentation of foods can make it easier to see the food and also make it look more appetizing.
MEDICATIONS

There are medications that have an effect on a patient’s appetite or can cause unwanted side effects. Medications can play a huge role in if a senior eats or not. Side effects such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting or dry mouth make eating off putting to some seniors.

Solution

Consult a physician. A physician will be able to adjust the regimen to minimize the side effects. Also working with a dietician can help if a senior has a strict regimen. If constipation is a side effect of the medication being taken try a fiber rich diet, exercise, and increasing fluids. Avoid laxatives because it can make matters worse. If symptoms worsen seek immediate medical attention.
ORAL HEALTH ISSUES

Dental issue can cause problems for senior’s food intake. Senior oral health issue can be soreness of gums, tooth pain or sensitivity and dentures. Oral devices can become loose of uncomfortable over time due to the jaw and mouth changing overtime.

Solution

Cook foods that are soft in texture and are moist, healthy sauces can moisten food. Also try cutting food into smaller pieces or finding recipes that accommodate a senior’s oral health.
LACK OF SOCIAL INTERACTION

Many seniors feel lonely when they eat alone, especially if they are used to family sit down meals. The lack of social interaction can steer a senior away from wanting to enjoy a meal.

Solution

Find a local community dining site. DuPage Senior Citizens Council offers community dining throughout all of DuPage County. This will give a senior the opportunity to have a warm meal and socialize with other seniors.

Visit here to see all of our Community Dining locations. If a senior is homebound, please have them enroll in our Home Delivered Meal Service. One of our friendly volunteers will come to the door with a hot meal.

Learn More About Home Delivered Meals and Community Dining