Malnutrition in Older Adults: More Common Than You Think

1 in 2 older adults are at risk for malnutrition. Does that fact surprise you? Malnutrition is a serious problem for older adults, but it often goes unnoticed. Whether we notice or not, it's deadly. In fact, recorded deaths from malnutrition have increased sixfold in the past decade. While it occurs in all age ranges, those over 85 are 60 times more likely to die from malnutrition. Could your loved one be malnourished?

What is Malnutrition?

Malnutrition, according to the World Health Organization, is a medical condition that happens when your body does not get the right balance, amount, or mix of nutrients and energy. The term "malnutrition" actually covers three different conditions: undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiency.

Undernutrition: This is usually associated with not getting enough to eat. Not eating enough can mean not getting enough calories, protein, or vitamins. This leads to stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height), or underweight (low weight for age).

Overnutrition: This involves eating excess calories but not enough nutrients. Overnutrition comes from diets high in fats and sugars. This leads to conditions like obesity.

Micronutrient Deficiency: This deficiency occurs when someone doesn't take in enough vital nutrients needed for life, even if they consume enough calories.

Malnutrition doesn't always mean someone isn't eating enough. It can also mean they aren't eating the right food. Bodies are delicate machines, and they require the correct fuel.

What Causes Malnutrition in Older Adults?

Malnutrition in older adults doesn't have one single cause. Physical issues and social issues can combine into a perfect storm, so to speak.

Physical Causes:

• Loss of smell

• Loss of taste

• Swallowing difficulties

• Dental issues, such as missing teeth or dentures

• Limited mobility

• Chronic illnesses affecting appetite

• Medication side effects

  
  

Social and Emotional Causes:

• Social isolation

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Cognitive decline

• Economic insecurity

• Elder neglect or abuse

Recognize the Signs of Malnutrition in Older Adults

Malnutrition can be subtle, and you may not notice it immediately. Those with cognitive decline may not even realize they aren't consuming enough. Here are signs to be on the lookout for when visiting with your loved one:

• Unintended weight loss

• Clothes getting baggier

• Muscle weakness

• "Hollow" appearance, like sunken eyes and prominent bones

• Swelling of ankles, legs

• Dry, cracked skin

• Slow-healing wounds

• Unexplained confusion, cognitive decline

• Low mood

• Frequent illness

How to Prevent Malnutrition in Older Adults

If you're worried about a loved one, take steps to prevent malnutrition. The easiest and most efficient way to ensure an older adult eats enough food? Eat with them. So many aspects of aging are isolating. We spend most of our lives associating socializing with meals. Yet older adults, after the loss of a spouse and friends, often spend meals alone. When you can manage it, sit down and eat a meal with them.

If you are not local to your loved one, consider hiring a caregiver. Caregivers can be hired for companion care, which provides seniors with emotional connection and assistance with daily life. Companions can help with food preparation and can provide company during meals.

If financial struggles are an issue, look into a meal service. Meals on Wheels is a national organization that delivers free or reduced meals straight to seniors' homes. CSFP, sometimes called the “Senior Food Box” program, sends a monthly box full of fresh, healthy food to low-income seniors. Your loved one could also receive SNAP benefits, known informally as food stamps, if they qualify.

We Can Help

Seniors Fix caregivers can help your loved one with meal preparation and mealtimes. For a free consultation to see if our service is right for them, please give us a call at 240-744-0674.