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Senior health: How to detect and prevent malnutrition
Malnutrition is a serious senior health issue. Know the warning signs and how to help an older loved one avoid poor nutrition.
By Mayo Clinic staffGood nutrition is critical to senior health — yet many older adults are at risk of inadequate nutrition. Know the causes and signs of nutrition problems in older adults, as well as steps you can take to ensure a nutrient-rich diet for an older loved one.
Problems caused by malnutrition
Malnutrition in older adults can lead to various health problems, including:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Weak immune system, which increases the risk of infections
- Low red blood cell count (anemia)
- Muscle weakness, which can lead to falls and fractures
- Digestive, lung and heart problems
- Poor skin integrity
Good nutrition is especially important for older adults who are seriously ill and those who have dementia or have lost weight. These older adults are more likely to be admitted to a hospital or long term care facility and are vulnerable to post-surgical complications and other problems linked to poor nutrition.
How malnutrition begins
The causes of malnutrition may seem straightforward: too little food, a diet lacking in nutrients, digestion problems related to getting older. But malnutrition is often caused by a combination of physical, social and psychological issues. For example:
- Health problems. Older adults often have health problems that can lead to decreased appetite or trouble eating, such as chronic illness, use of certain medications, trouble chewing due to dental issues, problems swallowing or difficulty absorbing nutrients. A recent hospitalization may be accompanied by loss of appetite or other nutrition problems. In other cases, a diminished sense of taste and smell decreases appetite.
- Limited income and reduced social contact. Some older adults may have trouble affording groceries, especially if they're taking expensive medications. Those who eat alone may not enjoy meals, causing them to lose interest in cooking and eating.
- Depression. Grief, loneliness, failing health, lack of mobility and other factors may contribute to depression — causing loss of appetite among older adults.
- Alcoholism. Alcoholism is a leading contributor to malnutrition — decreasing appetite and vital nutrients and frequently serving as a substitute for meals.
- Restricted diets. Older adults often have dietary restrictions, including limits on salt, fat, protein and sugar. Although such diets can help manage many medical conditions, they can also be bland and unappealing.
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