Why Your Senior is Losing Their Appetite

When it comes to sitting down for meals, have you noticed your senior would rather do anything but pick up that fork? Loss of appetite is not something to ignore; It’s not just a fussy phase that can be fixed with picking up their favorite takeout. Here’s what you need to know about seniors losing their appetite.

Evaluate the senior’s current health issues. Some serious illnesses can cause loss of appetite, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, as well as thyroid disorders, different types of cancers, and mouth and gum diseases. There are even certain types of medications that can cause loss of appetite. Remember, as we age, our taste buds do as well! Certain flavors may not pack a punch like they once did, causing seniors to lose interest in certain foods.

If you can rule out any serious illnesses, then look at the senior’s lifestyle. Dehydration and lack of exercise may be the culprit. A lack of routine in the senior’s day can disrupt their appetite, as well. This leads us to our next point—not planning what time of day the senior is going to sit down for a meal can cause them frustration with the whole meal process in general, opting to avoid the hassle of figuring out what to eat and skipping the meal altogether. It can also be as simple as the senior may not know how to prepare their own meals and needs some assistance.

Don’t underestimate the power of the mind. Depression and isolation can also cause a loss of appetite. Seniors should address any sudden changes in appetite with their doctor in order to rule out any serious medical issues.

How can you help your senior? Our Group Adult Foster Care and Adult Foster Care caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with daily living activities, including meal preparation. Caregivers work together with the senior to organize delicious meal options to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Learn more.