Loss of Appetite in Older Adults: Causes and ways to improve nutrition

One thing we may see as we age a change in appetite and meal patterns. For older adults and the caregivers who support them, shifts in hunger and meal patterns can affect overall health and independence.

There are several reasons for these changes.

• As we become less active, our energy needs may decrease.
• Medications can also play a role; they may suppress the appetite or change the taste of foods.
• Chronic diseases like heart disease or kidney disease may affect the appetite causing early fullness (satiety) or by changing our “tastes” for certain foods.

Among the many reasons appetite can decline with age, physical changes are some of the most significant

Difficulty chewing or swallowing

This is something that can be brought on suddenly, like in the case of a stroke or something that begins to happen gradually, like with Parkinson’s disease. It could also be caused by poorly fitting dentures, missing teeth, or dry mouth. When eating becomes painful, you may be to avoid certain foods or limit meal choices.

Decreased independence or stamina

If you start to notice difficulty standing for prolonged periods of time, you may not want to go to grocery shop, cook, or spend time preparing food. This can lead to relying on snacking instead of having nutrient dense meals. For older adults living alone, this challenge paired with depression or social isolation can further reduce appetite.

Sensory changes

With age foods can start to taste and smell differently. This can make you less interested in eating, even your favorite foods, especially when paired with dietary restrictions like reduced sodium.

Five Ways to Increase Appetite or Improve Meal Intake

Eat Smaller and More Frequently

Small frequent meals can help, especially if you are getting full quickly or overwhelmed with seeing a large plate of food in front of you. This allows more opportunities to increase intake throughout the day.

Having nutrient dense snacks available for easy access can be beneficial as well. Ideas are:

• hard boiled eggs
• cheese sticks
• applesauce, bananas or pears
• peanut butter
• cottage cheese or yogurt
• smoothies

Setting alarms or reminders to eat may help, especially if you or your loved one is not feeling a sense of hunger like they once did. Drinking fluids between meals can help avoid filling up on water to prevent feeling full too soon.

Meal prep or meal delivery services

While this may be challenging for some, it could offer a solution for stocking a freezer full of options. A few that come to mind are Meals on Wheels or Mom’s Meals, but there may also be local options where single-serving meals can be delivered for a fee.

Family members or caregivers can help batch cook soups or casseroles weekly or monthly. Having a stocked freezer reduces daily effort and ensures nutritious options.

Make mealtimes enjoyable

Season foods with extra flavorings like marinades, herbs, and vinegars to give foods extra pizazz. Experiment with new recipes or stick with the tried- and- true. If you are supporting a loved one, playing some music while cooking or coordinating visits around mealtimes.

Choose and prepare foods that are safe and enjoyable

If you have difficulty chewing, substitute tougher cuts of meat for ground meat. Instead of steak and potatoes, have a Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes. Or try chicken and noodles instead of fried chicken. Keep softer foods on hand that are easy to prepare or ready-made like instant mashed potatoes.

Consider factors like accessibility and independence.

Even when canned foods may be helpful, cost effective and aligned with 1-2 servings, they can be difficult to open for some. Make sure the food on hand can be accessible with easy-to-open packaging.

Shortcuts like buying rotisserie chicken, microwavable rice or steamable frozen vegetables can help reduce time spent cooking as well as dishes to clean.

Tools like a crock pot can be helpful in terms of less time standing and cooking while also making tender meats and vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Changes in appetite are a normal part of aging, but they do not have to cause poor nutrition or stressful mealtimes. With a few adjustments, older adults and their caregivers can create enjoyable and nutritious meals. Small changes can make a real difference in daily life. If you aren’t sure where to start, your local ArchWell Health center can be a great resource.