As one gets older, many changes occur related to appetite and can affect their health. Factors related to these changes can be physiological or psychosocial. Despite undergoing these circumstances, there are solutions to prevent or overcome these changes. Appetite is an important contribution to overall health and injury prevention.
Physiological
As you age the body undergoes many changes that may require medication. An affected system in particular is the digestive system. Digestion begins with the mouth. Believe it or not, the amount of saliva one produces contributes to their appetite. Production of saliva can decrease as a side effect of medication. Nearly one third of individuals over the age of 65 experience this. As a result, the elderly experience difficulties eating which can impair their appetite. In addition, dentition and gastric emptying can lead to loss of appetite. Poor dentition health makes it difficult to chew, affects taste, and makes eating a burden. Overall digestion and emptying of the stomach slows down with age. The longer food remains in the stomach, the longer satiation (hunger) takes and reduces appetite as a result.
Making dietary adjustments is important to ensure good health while aging. If medication is causing dry mouth, remember that water is an essential component of the body. An increase in fluid intake can help with dry mouth and digestion. Enhancing water with fresh fruit or citrus can encourage an individual to consume more water. For difficulty chewing, soft foods and smaller portions of food throughout the day can improve appetite. It is important to prioritize foods with more vitamins and minerals. A daily routine of eating three meals and small snacks in between can improve overall digestion. In addition, incorporating more movement throughout the day can aid in digestion. Implementing some of these can help increase appetite and ensure the maintenance of adequate nutrition.
Psychosocial
It is common to eat with company or with an ambiance in which a person feels comfortable. It is also nice to eat in a setting that is enjoyable. Appetite is in fact influenced by these factors. Eating is considered a social cue. Eating socially has many benefits both physically and mentally. Therefore, eating in a group setting or with company more often can encourage one to eat for the social aspect. Overall, eating alone is not as pleasurable compared to eating with others. There is a sense of reward when being sociable during a meal. Older adults that live alone often have reduced appetite due to this. Also, other factors like the lack of access to grocery shopping and cooking independently can play roles for older adults that are undereating or have a reduced appetite. It is important for older adults to maintain their weight and health.
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By: Celinabelen Mayorga
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Public Health Student at California State University of Fullerton
