When Should I Be Concerned About Elderly Appetite Loss?

When Should I Be Concerned About Appetite Loss in Older Adults?

Appetite loss is generally concerning, but it’s especially alarming when older adults experience it. Identifying the difference between a temporary change in appetite and a more permanent change is crucial.

Learn more about why older adults lose their appetite, the factors influencing it, when it should be a concern and Corewood Care’s role in trying to treat and improve it.

Factors Influencing Appetite in Older Adults

Aging is a natural process that impacts appetite. As older adults age, their health declines, their senses, such as smell and taste, diminish, and hormonal and other physiological changes impact their appetite. Other factors that affect their appetite include:

• Decreased well-being: Decreased emotional and psychological well-being may lead to reduced appetite.
• Mental health: Dementia, Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments can affect older adults’ appetites, especially if they use certain medications.
• Chronic illnesses: Diabetes, cancer, heart disease and other chronic illnesses may affect their hunger as treatment side effects sometimes include loss of appetite.
• Social factors: Loneliness and isolation due to losing their significant other may lead to depression and decreased appetite.

When Should Appetite Loss Be a Concern?

Prolonged appetite loss leads to a loss of nutrients essential for everyday functioning. This can lead to reduced mobility, weight loss, dehydration, frailty, a weakened immune system and other serious health issues such as organ failure. Tracking these changes before they worsen is essential for implementing a suitable plan to increase appetite.

When appetite loss becomes a visible concern and attempts to address the issue are futile, such as trying smaller portions, finger foods, smoothies and soups, it’s best to consult professionals for assistance.

Treating Appetite Loss in Older Adults

A caregiver’s intervention can impact an older adult battling appetite loss. With the right caregiver and family support, they can return to eating healthy and balanced meals, improving their overall health. At Corewood Care, our personal caregivers commit to ensuring older adults are cared for by preparing and cooking nutritious meals and serving them.

Our personal care services assist older adults with activities of daily living (ADLs) so they can continue enjoying a comfortable quality of life. In addition to physical support and tangible services, our caregivers offer emotional support and companionship to help older adults manage their eating habits.

Choose Corewood Care to Help Older Adults With ADLs

Finding and treating the root cause of appetite loss is critical, and long-term care helps monitor and maintain a healthy appetite. Corewood Care offers care management and in-home care services to offer families peace of mind and ensure their family members are well cared for.

To discuss our services, call us at 301-909-8117, schedule a free assessment or visit one of our offices to speak to us.