As we age one of the things that may change is our eating habits. It’s not uncommon for older adults to eat less as they get older, and this can be influenced by various factors.
Loss of Taste and Smell:
We like to eat food that taste good, and smell is a big part of taste. So when those senses decline, it can contribute to reduced food intake among older individuals. These sensory functions play a pivotal role in our enjoyment of food, and when they deteriorate, so does our appetite. Food that once brought joy may become bland and unappealing, leading to a decreased interest in eating. This diminished sensory experience can result in a preference for simpler, blander foods, which often lack the necessary nutrients for maintaining good health. Think about when you eat with a stopped up nose, how good does food taste?
Inability to Get or Prepare Food:
Another challenge that older adults may face is the inability to get or prepare food. Mobility can be an issue, which could contribute to difficulty navigating a kitchen, leading to less meal preparation. Thus a reliance on pre-packaged or convenience foods, which are often less nutritious than whole foods. Additionally, social isolation can exacerbate this issue, as it may limit the availability of family or friends to assist with meal preparation. And if alone, it’s not always easy or enjoyable to cook for one.
Effects of Prescription Medicines:
Prescription medicines can also have a significant impact on an individual’s appetite and eating habits. Many older adults take multiple medications to manage chronic health conditions, and some of those medications may have side effects such as nausea, changes in taste perception, or decreased appetite. Having those side effects can make it challenging to eat regular, balanced meals, which in turn can negatively affect overall health.
Being aware of these possible factors to eating less and getting less nutrition is the first step. Here are a few strategies to help combat the decline in food intake:
If you have to be on medication, talk with your healthcare provider to learn about the side effects and if there’s anything you can do about them.
Consult with a nutrition professional, they might be able offer personalized guidance on nutritional adjustments to accommodate changes in taste and smell.
Find what programs are available in your area that can offer meal delivery services, or social organizations which can help ensure older adults have access to balanced, nutritious meals, even if they cannot prepare them themselves.
Be sociable, it helps combat isolation and may lead to more shared meals, promoting healthier eating habits.
Eating less with age can have many factors, these were just three possible ones. Being able to recognize and then address them is crucial to ensuring that older adults maintain a healthy and well-balanced nutrition as they age, promoting overall well-being and longevity.