Malnutrition in the elderly increases the risk of death, recognize the symptoms

The problem of malnutrition does not only occur in children. In fact, it is the elderly who are more at risk of experiencing malnutrition. Elderly is an age group where a person has experienced various decreases in body functions that can affect appetite, which in turn can lead to eating disorders and malnutrition. Malnutrition in the elderly can have more serious health impacts, such as impaired organ function and an increased risk of death. So, what are the characteristics of malnutrition in the elderly, and how do elderly nurses deal with it?

The elderly eat less and less often

Decreasing various body functions in old age can cause the elderly to have difficulty eating for various reasons.

For example, the elderly's appetite tends to decrease because their senses of taste and smell are not as sharp as they used to be to smell and taste food. The elderly are also more prone to experiencing decreased saliva production, loose teeth, weakened intestinal and stomach function, and decreased gastric acid production, which makes it difficult for the body to absorb food.

Decreased appetite can also be a side effect of the drug or disease it has. Due to their physical limitations, many elderly people are no longer able to prepare food for themselves. In addition, the elderly are also more likely to isolate themselves because of losing their loved ones or having financial / emotional problems because of living alone. These two social factors have never been realized that can contribute to the loss of appetite and cause anorexia in the elderly.

Ultimately, all of these risk factors work together to reduce the appetite of older people, as a result of which they eat less and less frequently.

Health impacts that may occur if the elderly do not eat enough

Lack of food over time can lose weight which is actually dangerous for the elderly because it triggers the loss of muscle mass, including the muscles of the respiratory organs.

Malnutrition in the elderly also causes decreased body function, including the function of the digestive and immune systems, which is especially important when the elderly have an infection.

In addition, malnutrition also triggers low albumin in blood serum (hypoalbuminemia). This is very dangerous because it can cause damage to various body tissues. So, it is not impossible that long-term malnutrition can increase the risk of death in the elderly.

How to detect malnutrition in the elderly?

The signs of malnutrition in the elderly can be difficult to identify, especially in people who do not appear to have certain health risks. However, knowing the symptoms in advance can help prevent complications that will occur in the future. Here's how to detect malnutrition in the elderly:

Observe the eating habits of people who are getting old. Spend time with your parents during meals at home, not just on special occasions.
Watch for weight loss. Help your parents monitor their weight at home. You may also notice other signs of weight loss, such as a change in clothing size.
Apart from losing weight, malnutrition can lead to prolonged wound healing (although not diabetic wounds), easy bruising, and dental health problems. So, pay attention to this problem too
Many drugs affect appetite, digestion and absorption of nutrients. Reconsider or consult a doctor for the use of these types of drugs when the elderly experience a drastic loss of appetite.

How to solve the problem of malnutrition in the elderly?

Although decreased appetite occurs naturally, malnutrition in the elderly can be fatal. Routinely invite your parents to consult a doctor to treat their illnesses. It is better if you consult with a licensed nutritionist to improve their nutritional status, so that they can stay healthy for daily activities without hindrance.

To deal with the elderly who have difficulty eating, the type of food and the time must be adjusted. Unlike most people in general, with a breakfast, lunch and dinner pattern, you should give the elderly smaller portions so they can eat whenever they feel hungry. The food given should also be soft.

Expand food sources that contain whey protein and casein, probiotics, and antioxidants. But still balance it with the right intake of fat, protein and carbohydrates. If the elderly continue to eat a little, you can help meet their nutritional needs from dietary supplements.

In addition to helping them meet their nutritional needs from food, encourage the elderly to stay active. Active movement strengthens muscles, which is important for preventing muscle mass loss and decreased muscle function. Getting active regularly can also strengthen bones and improve appetite in the elderly.