Does your elderly family member have difficulty eating at mealtimes or regularly complain about a lack of appetite? Are they losing weight rapidly or becoming frail? It can be challenging and frustrating to take care of your seniors when they have lost their appetite. Everyone has different ways of showing their fear or worry, but it is important to remain calm, understanding, and encouraging if you are a family caregiver.
Not all family members can be around their parents night and day, and if your senior isn’t eating while you’re at work, it could lead to problems. 24-hour home care can be there when you can’t and encourage your senior parents to snack throughout the day and drink more water. It is part of a care plan, and it can ensure your seniors are staying healthy.
Sometimes a senior needs more help than 24-hour home care can provide, and it means they need to go to their doctors. These caregivers can provide rides for seniors, making it easier to schedule a doctor’s appointment. If no health or medical problem is causing them eating issues, the underlying cause may be a common age-related characteristic.
Common Things That Affect a Seniors Appetite
Seniors may struggle with eating or lose their appetite entirely as they age. Here are a few things that may affect your loved ones’ appetite.
Seniors Senses Change Over Time
Taste and scent changes are frequent in older persons. Many seniors experience a diminished sensitivity to flavor, resulting in the blandness and tastelessness of formerly favored dishes. Additionally, some people may develop an aversion to the fragrance of particular meals, resulting in decreased appetite.
A Senior May Be Dehydrated
Seniors might get dehydrated without realizing it. Consequently, individuals may get dehydrated, resulting in decreased energy, headaches, and appetite loss. Dehydration is a huge cause for concern and should be addressed right away.
They May Not Feel Hungry
Seniors may experience decreased hunger levels due to age-related changes to the body, even if they haven’t eaten in a while. Sedentary behavior, physical inactivity, and some drugs may help with hunger reduction.
They May Have New Doctor Approved Diets
Providers of health care may propose specific diets, such as low-sodium or low-carbohydrate diets. Seniors may develop an aversion to eating due to having to forego their favored meals when their diets are altered. Additionally, some elders may dislike being unable to make their own nutritional choices.
Physical Impairments Among Seniors
A physical disability might cause elders to eat seldom. Mobility issues may make it difficult for older folks to shop for groceries, cook meals, and access the pantry. Difficulties with chewing, swallowing, or using utensils may also have an impact on their eating habits. Memory loss may also contribute to decreased appetite since elders may be unaware of the time since their last meal.
24-hour home care can help provide companionship during meals which may help a senior feel more comfortable eating. They can also help keep a senior on a routine, plus prepare meals for them.
If you are considering 24-hour home care in Kalamazoo, MI, for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at Fresh Perspective Home Care at (269) 329-4717. We are here to help!
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