Noticing Changes in a Senior’s Eating Behaviors? Here’s Why.

There are a number of reasons that could be causing changes in a senior’s eating behaviors.

Following the indulgence of the holiday season, many of us decide to cut back on consumption of calories. But when an older adult does not want to eat altogether, or is making unbalanced or unhealthy dietary choices, it’s important to look for the reason behind changes in a senior’s eating behaviors. This is a first and crucial step in promoting healthier eating habits.

What Can Cause Changes in a Senior’s Eating Behaviors?

There are many key reasons someone may stop eating or begin making poor dietary choices  – and strategies you can employ to help overcome them:

• Loneliness. This is a common problem among older adults, and can make mealtime less enjoyable. Share meals whenever possible with a lonely senior family member, invite friends and neighbors to join them, or contact Hired Hands Homecare for a caregiving companion to assist.
• Side effects from medications. Schedule an appointment with the doctor for a comprehensive examination of all meds being taken, and find out if one or more might be causing a loss of appetite or bothersome gastrointestinal effects. See if the medication could be changed to a more tolerable alternative or if the dosage amount can be changed.
• Low vision. If the person is unable to see clearly, they may perceive foods differently and lose interest in eating. Vision problems may also make it more difficult and even dangerous to prepare meals as well as get out to pick up groceries. Offer to help with shopping and meal prep (or let us help!) and serve foods that are brightly colored and contrasted to the colors of serving dishes, place mats, the tablecloth, etc. so they’re more easily seen.
• Complications with dental health. Talk to the dentist to determine if dentures should be refitted or if perhaps there are any other dental concerns that need to be addressed. You may want to provide foods that are softer and/or cut them into smaller pieces. Ground meat, lentils, and beans, for instance, are easier to chew than a steak or pork chop.
• Loss of taste or smell. Aging in general oftentimes results in a dulling of these senses, which can affect the pleasure of eating. Try experimenting with more aromatic and flavorful spices and herbs while preparing meals, like garlic, thyme, and ginger.

Hired Hands Homecare is here for older adults struggling to maintain a healthy diet, for whatever reason. We can partner with you to ensure all the bases are covered in providing older loved ones with every opportunity to once again enjoy meals and establish improved eating habits. Give us a call at (866) 940-4343 to find out how we can help someone you love in Novato, Napa, Santa Rosa, or throughout the Bay Area.