Some older adults only have this randomly and it doesn't last long. However, other elderly people experience loss of appetite regularly. If that is the case for your elderly loved one, it is essential to know how to help them. Home Care Services can be an option.
Find Out What is Causing Loss of Appetite
There are so many things that can cause loss of appetite for older adults. Some of the causes might be:
Medication side effects
Illness or disease
Depression
Anxiety
Oral health issues
These are just some things that might cause your elderly loved one to lose their appetite. If you can't find the cause of your elderly loved one's loss of appetite, it might be a good idea to get personal care at home. The home care providers can be with your elderly loved one more throughout the day and night. They might better understand what is going on if they can be with your elderly loved one more often. If not, you or the senior care provider should get your elderly loved one to the doctor's office for an assessment.
Encouraging Snacking
Does your elderly loved one have a loss of appetite? If so, they might benefit from having light snacks throughout the day. These should be healthy snacks such as:
Vegetables
Fruits
Yogurt
Crackers and nuts
By encouraging healthy snacking throughout the day, your elderly loved one won't get too hungry. They will also be getting the vitamins and minerals they need. However, it is essential to note that snacking should not replace all your elderly loved one's meals. If they are unwilling or unable to eat a regular meal, make sure you or an elderly care provider take them to the doctor to see what is going on.
Making Power Meals
Does your elderly loved one not eat much or often due to a loss of appetite? If so, they must eat power meals when they do eat. These are meals that are filled with:
Vitamins
Minerals
Antioxidants
Nutrients
If your elderly loved one eats at least some of these meals, they might be able to keep their vitamin and nutrient levels where they need to be. However, don't hesitate to get personal care at home services if you can't make these meals. The senior care providers can help prepare these.
Home Care Services: Conclusion
Does your elderly loved one have a loss of appetite? First, it is essential to find out what is causing this issue. Once you do that, you might be able to help your loved one get their appetite back. In the meantime, you should also encourage your elderly loved ones to eat healthy snacks and power meals. These will help keep their nutrient and vitamin levels where they should be. Again, check into home care services if you should need help with this.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care Services in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties, please get in touch with the caring staff at Modern Health Home Care today. 215.995.2012.
Comments