Caring for an Elderly Loved One who is Underweight

By Jamie Shapiro | March 4, 2016 | Comments Off on Caring for an Elderly Loved One who is Underweight

Elderly Care in Skokie IL

It is not uncommon for adults who are 65 and older to become underweight and undernourished.  Factors such as chronic medical conditions, taking certain medications, depression, and difficulty chewing or swallowing can all lessen an elderly adult’s appetite causing them to become underweight and lacking in nutrition.  Unfortunately, being underweight can have health consequences for elderly adults.  When elderly adults do not get adequate nourishment it can lead to muscle loss, infection, and it can make it harder for them to recover from injuries or medical procedures.  As a caregiver, you may be wondering how you can help your elderly loved ones gain an appropriate amount of weight so that they have better health overall.  Here are just a few things you can do:

Prepare Several Small Meals Throughout the Day

In addition to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it is a good idea to prepare and serve smaller meals or snacks throughout the day.  This will encourage your loved one to eat more as there will be more opportunities to eat.  Make sure to have snacks prepared and ready to go for when your elderly loved one gets hungry.

Serve Foods that are Rich in Essential Nutrients

If your elderly loved ones are struggling with getting adequate nutrition due to poor appetite, it is important for you to make each of their meals and snacks count.  If they tend to eat a small amount, make sure that what they do eat is filled with the essential nutrients they need.  Some examples of nutrient-dense foods are fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and lean meats.

Talk to a Doctor or Registered Dietician Nutritionist

If you are concerned about your loved one’s weight, it is a great idea to bring up your concern at their next doctor’s appointment.  Their doctor may have suggestions for you to help them to get the nutrition they need.  In addition, a registered dietician nutritionist, or RDN, may be able to help your loved one create a healthy eating plan that will help them gain weight healthfully.

Encourage Exercise

Being underweight can lead to loss of muscle and a weekend immune system, but exercise can combat these health issues.  In addition, regular exercise can help increase your loved one’s appetite, helping them to get the nutrition they need.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Skokie, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.

 

Source:  https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/tips-gain-weight-seniors-elderly-9774.html

Jamie Shapiro
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