How to Support Seniors Who Are Not Eating Properly

Many seniors struggle with managing a healthy, nutrient-rich diet, and in some cases, they may not consume enough food during the day. Approximately 50%of seniors suffer from malnutrition in the U.S. Fortunately, many cases of poor eating habits can be avoided with proper in-home senior care in Great Falls, VA. You’ll also want to look for key signs of improper eating habits that ultimately affect your loved ones’ health. This article will guide you on how to support seniors who are not eating properly. 

1. Consider the Underlying Cause 

What can you do to find the underlying cause of your loved one’s eating problems? There are several reasons for improper eating, and some symptoms may hint at other health issues. Forgetting to eat or skipping a meal unknowingly can be an early sign of dementia. Depression can also affect your loved one’s eating routine or appetite. 

Besides this, tooth pain and related dental issues can lead to problems swallowing and difficulty chewing, which can reduce the amount of food your loved one can comfortably enjoy. Some underlying health issues, certain medications, and even age can lead to a loss of taste or appetite. Nurse Next Door McLean can match you with a suitable senior personal care assistant in Great Falls, Virginia, who can help set regular meal times, prepare meals, and assist with feeding and maintaining hydration. 

2. Opt for Foods that are Easy to Chew and Digest, Or Liquid Nutrition

Does your elderly parent suffer from a health condition that makes digestion difficult? The possible reasons may include: 

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Medications
• Acid reflux
• Post-surgery side effects 

Sometimes food can be difficult to chew, especially chewy foods. Your loved one can choose foods that are easier for them to eat, such as eggs, toast, bananas, oatmeal, fish, and chicken. Soups and smoothies are also great options for increasing protein, fibre, vitamins, and healthy fats.

3. Prepare Tastier, Healthy, Nutrient-rich Foods

Sometimes, foods that are boring and lack flavor can have an impact on your loved one’s appetite. Adding fresh fruit to a bowl of hot cereal in the morning, or a bit of seasoning or suitable herbs to chicken or salmon, can make a big difference in improving taste, while increasing nutritional value at the same time. A personal care assistant can help with customized meal plans so that your elderly parent looks forward to their next meal, while improving the quality of their diet and appetite.

Nutrition Tips to Manage Diabetes and Blood Pressure in Seniors

4. Get Feeding, Hydration, and Emotional Support with In-Home Care Services

Actively listening to and considering what your loved ones want and need can help improve their eating habits. You’ll find this is a vital part of personalized in-home care, ensuring that your parents feel seen and heard about the foods they love while including nutritious options in their dietary plan. Regular hydration and ongoing emotional support can go a long way to keeping your loved ones healthy and content. In-home senior care in Great Falls, VA, can provide the support your elderly parents need to meet their emotional and dietary needs.

5. Promote Routines and Regular Meal Times

Setting regular meal times and opportunities to enjoy a healthy snack in between activities can help implement healthy eating habits. For example, if your loved one enjoys an early start, a hearty bowl of oatmeal with fresh fruit, or toast with poached eggs can be a great way to start the day. Planning meals around activities can be a great way to ensure that your elderly parents never miss a meal.

6. Smaller Meal Portions, Frequently

Sometimes, a generous serving can be overwhelming. A professional personal care assistant can play an important role in creating smaller, more manageable meals that fulfill your elderly parent’s nutritional needs. Smaller portions can be served more frequently, which can also aid digestion.

Reach Out to Nurse Next Door McLean for In-Home Support 

Some of the most important aspects of supporting your elderly loved ones involve:

• Meal planning
• Focusing on dietary needs
• Preparing healthy meals
• Feeding assistance
• Hydration support

Nurse Next Door McLean matches you with the right personal care assistant who also ensures they have the emotional support and companionship to stay motivated. 

Consider Nurse Next Door McLean for in-home senior care in Great Falls, VA, for your parents’ unique needs.

Reach out to us at (703) 774-9421 to book a free Caring Consult.