When seniors experience loss of appetite, it can be difficult for them to get the proper nutrition needed to stay healthy. A lack of interest in eating can be caused by a variety of factors that may include medication side effects, pain, or depression. If you provide care for an aging loved one and notice that he or she has started to turn away meals, here are a few ways to help him or her stay motivated to eat a healthy diet.
1. Check for Underlying Causes
A loss of appetite frequently occurs along with other changes in a person’s physical or mental health. Sometimes, the solution is as simple as correcting ill-fitting dentures or increasing a senior’s physical activity throughout the day so he or she is hungry. However, there may be more serious problems causing your loved one’s lack of appetite, such as digestive disorders. For this reason, it’s often best to start with a physical exam by a doctor to rule out any underlying causes.
Seniors with serious health conditions often need help preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare services. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
2. Encourage Light Snacking
Seniors who face difficulty with their appetite may find it easier to eat several small meals throughout the day. When preparing light snacks for your loved one, make sure they all add up to the same daily amount of calories and nutrients that your loved one would have with three regular meals. Making sure your loved one has a companion to sit with him or her at each meal can also encourage him or her to eat more.
For families living in Oakville, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
3. Prepare Power Meals
There are specific superfoods that can be included in a senior’s meals to make sure every bite is packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals. For example, flax or chia seeds can be sprinkled over yogurt and oatmeal to add an extra boost of omega fatty acids and protein. Seniors who prefer smoothies and shakes can also get the right amount of nutrition by adding vegetables to a fruit puree or sprinkling in protein powder. This way, your loved one can still eat less while receiving plenty of calories and vitamins to restore his or her energy and keep his or her body running at peak efficiency.
Eating nutritious meals is just one of the many ways seniors can boost their health and stave off a wide variety of diseases. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Oakville, ON, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (905) 337-1200 today.