by Dianna Malkowski, Physician Assistant & Nutritionist
Watch the video - how to recognize and prevent malnutrion in seniors
As a nutritionist and member of The CareGiver Partnership team, I see every day how age plays a role in health and nutrition. We have solicited the input of thousands of caregivers, and a reoccurring concern is senior malnutrition. The baby boomer generation, many of whom are now caring for their parents, worries about the risks associated with aging. They see Mom and Dad being less mobile, which in turn makes it more difficult to shop for and cook fresh, nutritious foods.
Causes and symptoms
Malnutrition can begin with a medication or health problem that leads to decreased appetite or trouble eating. Other causes include dietary restrictions, alcoholism, or limited income and social contact. If you suspect a loved one isn’t getting good nutrition, observe his everyday eating habits and find out who buys his food. Look for signs such as poor wound healing, easy bruising, dental problems and weight loss evidenced by ill-fitting clothing.
If untreated, malnutrition can lead to various health problems such as fatigue, depression, weakened immune system, anemia, poor skin integrity, and digestive, heart and lung problems. In addition, we know falls and fear of falling are responsible for up to 40 percent of nursing home admissions, and malnutrition can lead to muscle weakness, which in turn can lead to falls and fractures.
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| Good nutrition is critical to a healthy immune system, digestion, heart, lungs and muscle strength. |
Small steps to better nutrition
So we see how critical good nutrition is to senior health. If you see evidence of malnutrition, take comfort in knowing that even small dietary changes can make a difference in your loved one’s health and well-being. Here are some tips for getting back on the right nutrition track:
· Encourage nutrition-packed foods. Add nut butters to fruit or wheat crackers, wheat germ to cereal, and cheese to vegetables and soups. Keep nutritious, easy-to-eat snacks on hand, such as string cheese, yogurt, sliced fruit or nuts.
· Add flavor to bland foods. Because seniors often experience loss of taste and smell, or may have strict dietary restrictions, food may seem unappealing. Experiment with herbs, spices and lemon juice in recipes. Ask a dietitian for suggestions if needed.
· Make meals into social events. Eating alone isn’t as much fun as eating with others. Invite your loved one over for meals as often as possible, or visit her during mealtimes. Check if your area has senior programs where people can eat together.
· Consult your loved one’s health care providers. Ask for a nutrition screening during a routine visit, and find out whether she might benefit from supplements. Consult a dentist for oral problems.
· Enlist outside help. A home health aide can shop for groceries or prepare meals, and there are some registered dietitians who make home visits. Check whether Meals on Wheels or other not-for-profit community programs are available to deliver prepared meals in your area.
· Consider a healthy-meal home-delivery service. Services have come a long way and may offer freshly prepared fresh foods. Some, such as Seattle Sutton's Healthy Eating, offer portion- and calorie-controlled meals, so you know your loved one is getting exactly what he needs daily and weekly. Home delivery is convenient, and the fresh meals (not frozen) are tasty. You can choose from more than 100 varieties with no repeats over a 21-day period.
Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets and nutrition support. She serves on the board of professional advisors for The CareGiver Partnership and enjoys working with patients and caregivers alike. Ask Dianna a question, or for one-on-one help with nutrition products, call 1-800-985-1353 M-F 9-4 CST.
Source: Mayo Clinic: Senior Health, How to Detect and Prevent Malnutrition
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