Have you recently noticed a change in your loved one’s eating habits? If so, there’s a good chance you can trace this issue back to a loss of appetite.
To an extent, a gradual decrease in appetite is common in seniors. As we get older, our bodies expend less energy and require fewer calories. That said, a sudden loss of appetite is a reason for concern, and can be caused by:
- Medical conditions
- Side effects of medications
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Loneliness and depression
Worried about your loved one not getting adequate nutrition? Read on to learn how to stimulate appetite in seniors and make their meals more enjoyable!
Consider Medical Issues
First things first: are there any medical issues contributing to a loss of appetite? These are fairly common in seniors, so they’re always worth exploring.
For instance, some prescription medications can cause dry mouth. This occurs when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. As a result, chewing can be difficult and food can taste different.
There are a few ways to alleviate the effects of dry mouth in seniors. Before they sit down to eat, have them chew sugarless gum or use an oral rinse. Both options will increase the flow of saliva and improve taste sensations.
Choose Foods Wisely
As far as healthy eating goes, quality is often more important than quantity. If you choose the right foods, your loved one won’t need to eat much at all.
One tip we can give you here is to focus on whole, minimally processed foods. These foods provide most of the essential nutrients our bodies need as we age. Some of the more common nutrient-dense foods include:
- Peaches
- Blueberries
- Green vegetables
- Potatoes
- Fish
- Eggs
If you’re considering assisted living communities for your loved one, pick one that offers varied menu options. Good communities will also consider their residents’ dietary restrictions and encourage healthy eating.
Have a Meal Schedule
One of the best senior nutrition tips we can give you is to plan meals. Having a regular meal schedule can do a lot to increase their appetite.
Why is this the case? Well, our bodies (including our hunger signals) often thrive on regularity. If we always eat at the same time each day, our bodies will get used to it and start sending signals that it’s time for nourishment.
If your loved one has a low appetite, try to get them to eat at the same time every day. Ideally, you would pick times when their appetite is strongest. Once you create a schedule, stick to it for a bit even if they’re not always hungry.
Encourage Social Meals
When it comes to overcoming appetite loss, it can help to make mealtimes a social event. It’s been proven that eating with others increases food intake.
Unfortunately, many seniors don’t get many chances to eat in a shared environment. Some of the common reasons for that are:
- Lack of transportation
- Mobility problems
- Losing a spouse
One way to deal with this issue is to encourage “meal dates” with friends and family. Of course, assisted living programs offer shared dining experiences as well. They’re also the perfect solution for loneliness and isolation.
Offer Appetite Stimulants
Some seniors stop eating because they’re no longer interested in food. This often happens due to our ghrelin production slowing down as we get older.
Though this can be a normal part of aging, it may lead to malnutrition. One way to counter low ghrelin production is through appetite stimulants. These stimulants can come in various forms, from medications to supplements.
Talk to a doctor to determine if this would be a good option for your loved one. They can tell you more about the pros and cons of each stimulant. They’ll also consider your loved one’s overall health before prescribing anything.
Keep Portions Small
Many seniors feel overwhelmed when they see a large plate of food. If they feel like they have to eat everything, they’re more likely to give up altogether.
To prevent this issue, keep the portions small but rich in calories. There are many nutrient-dense foods that are perfect for seniors due to being packed with healthy fats. Some examples include:
- Avocados
- Peanut butter
- Olive oil
- Soft cheese
- Finely cut meat
Increase Hydration
Another key to improving appetite is staying hydrated. According to the UCLA School of Nursing, up to 40% of seniors living on their own are underhydrated.
On top of the loss of appetite, underhydration can lead to medical issues such as kidney stones and urinary tract infections. This is a key reason why it’s important for seniors to drink plenty of water between meals.
Liquid foods can also be a good way for your loved one to get the nutrients they need. Protein shakes and smoothies are particularly good for this purpose. Many nutritional supplements come in liquid form as well.
Don’t Forget the Aesthetics
Food is about more than taste. If a meal is aesthetically pleasing, it can enhance your perception of the flavor and make you want to eat more.
Fortunately, there are plenty of great meal ideas for seniors out there. Here are some things you may want to try:
- Opt for brightly colored foods and garnishes
- Serve food on colorful dinnerware
- Add flavor with spices, herbs, and sauces
- Experiment with different-sized plates
You can also try to make the actual mealtime more enjoyable. For instance, why not play music or a TV show your loved one enjoys while they’re eating? You can also set the table using their preferred place settings.
This Is How to Stimulate Appetite in Seniors
When it comes to how to stimulate appetite, all seniors are different. For some, the above tips should get them on the right track. Others, especially those with health conditions, would be better off living in an assisted living community.
At Morada Midwest City, we use fresh ingredients to prepare nutritious meals each day. We also offer personal care plans tailored to each resident’s specific needs. Contact us here to see why we’re the best assisted living community in Midwest City, OK!
