Who comes to mind when you think about malnutrition?  Many will think of the homeless living in your city, or the children residing in less-developed countries. But what about the elderly? According to the Alliance For Aging Research, malnutrition is an underrecognized and underreported problem among older adults in the United States. Here are a few shocking statistics about malnutrition in the elderly.

Disease-associated malnutrition can occur in conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, gastrointestinal diseases, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, and depression.

Disease-related malnutrition is often associated with protein deficiencies, which can result in loss of muscle mass and strength, known as a condition called sarcopenia.

Why is malnutrition underrecognized and underreported among older adults in the United States?

One of the main reasons malnutrition often goes unnoticed is that the symptoms can be difficult to identify. Even healthcare professionals miss the signs; it’s not uncommon for malnutrition to be mistaken as a normal part of the aging process. Unfortunately, the consequences of undiagnosed malnutrition can be detrimental to a senior’s health. Failing to meet nutritional needs can compromise immunity, lead to unhealthy weight loss, reduce mobility, and ultimately jeopardize independence.

The increased economic burden in the United Statesd for disease-associated malnutrition in older adults is $51.3 billion per year. Not only is malnutrition dangerous, but; it’s also expensive.

Because seniors are more likely to have chronic conditions, their risk for malnutrition increases. Cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and several other conditions can reduce their appetite, make eating difficult or change their metabolism. Some conditions, such as diabetes, may even require dietary restrictions. Here are a few additional reasons why seniors may become malnourished.

Common Causes of Malnutrition in Seniors

There are many common causes that put seniors at risk of malnutrition including:

Getting to the Grocery Store

Getting to and from the grocery store can be one of the most significant challenges for seniors trying to get adequate nutrition. This can be for a variety of reasons.

Inability to drive. Seniors who are unable to drive may have a difficult time finding a ride to and from the grocery store.

Weather. Many seniors, especially those who are frail, refrain from making a trip to the grocery store when the weather is bad.

Live far away. Seniors who live in rural areas may have a hard time getting adequate nutrition because they live too far from a grocery store. Perhaps the store nearest to them is limited in its selection of fresh foods.

Each of these barriers can make it difficult for seniors to get to the grocery store.

Navigating the Grocery Store

While some seniors may refrain from grocery shopping because they have trouble getting to and from the store, other seniors may refrain from shopping because of the struggles they have when at the grocery store.

Difficulty reaching or carrying items. Seniors with limited strength and mobility may feel like they are a burden when they continuously have to ask employees for assistance with items that are hard to reach or difficult to carry.

Shopping for one.  Many of the items in the grocery store are geared towards families; this can make it difficult for seniors who are shopping for one.

Packaging. Nutritional labels are often small and difficult to read, especially for those will poor vision.

Many seniors attempt to reduce the frequency of their grocery store visits by purchasing more processed foods due to their longer shelf life. Unfortunately, processed foods are often rich in unhealthy ingredients including salt and sugar.

Home care services can help seniors by eliminating many of the challenges seniors face when grocery shopping. Caregivers can drive seniors to the grocery store, help them navigate the aisles, read labels, and transport the groceries back to the senior’s homes.

Decreased Senses

Don’t notice when food spoils. Diminished senses can make it hard for seniors to realize when food goes bad. Reduced eyesight can make it difficult to see mold, while a decrease in the sense of smell and taste can also make it difficult for seniors to recognize spoiled food.

Many seniors can benefit from having a caregiver sort through old foods and add labels dating the food and determining expiration dates.

Decrease of food intake.  A decrease in senses can make food seem less appealing to older adults and cause a loss of appetite. Not only does this apply to taste, but also smell. You may not realize it, but the smell of food plays a huge role in how enjoyable you find it.

Lack of a nutritional diet. Malnutrition is more common in older people who lack nutrients in their diet. This can be due to several reasons, such as insufficient intake or malabsorption. A decrease in nutrient intake can lead to a decrease in energy levels and an overall decline in health.

Lack of Companionship

Less enthusiastic about eating alone. For many of us, meals are better shared with the company of others. If a geriatric individual is living alone, they may not be as enthusiastic about eating. One of the most overlooked contributions that caregivers bring to seniors is their companionship during meal times.

Loss of a friend or loved one. Seniors may become malnourished due to the loss of a friend or loved one. Maybe they used to go out to eat with this person or have them over for dinner. Regardless, a loss can cause seniors to lose their appetite.

Risk Factors of Undernutrition in Seniors

There are many nutritional risk factors that can result due to malnutrition in seniors. Some of these include:

  • Decreased mobility and physical function
  • Loss of appetite
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Depression
  • Anorexia
  • Decrease in wound healing
  • Poor dental health
  • Decreased immunity
  • Increased risk of falls
  • Chronic Disease
  • Unintentional weight loss

Malnutrition is a serious problem among seniors, but it can be prevented with the help of caregivers. Home care services can provide seniors with the assistance they need to maintain their well-being by taking them grocery shopping, cooking for them, and preparing nutritious meals. In addition, caregivers can provide much-needed companionship during meal times and other activities of daily living.

Enhance Healthy Aging with Amada Senior Care

Getting adequate nutrition is crucial for seniors to remain independent. Seniors who meet their requirements typically report better mental acuity, stronger immune systems, higher energy levels and have an easier time managing chronic illnesses.

At Amada Senior Care, we understand the importance of proper nutrition for seniors and their quality of life. Our caregivers are can help seniors with meal planning and grocery shopping as a part of their long-term care plan. In addition, our caregivers can provide positive care setting to make sure they are getting the nutrition they need.