By addressing appetite issues promptly, you can help safeguard your overall wellness and ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to function properly.

Finding the Root Cause

Sometimes the culprit of a lack of hunger is easy to discover. For example, side effects of certain medications can trigger poor appetite. A quick trip to your medicine cabinet and a chat with your doctor may be all that's needed to correct the issue.

It's important to talk with your medical providers and caregivers when you don't feel the desire to eat. Your doctor can rule out potential hormone changes and health issues through testing. They may also refer you to specialists, such as dentists and speech therapists, to help diagnose and treat difficulties with chewing and swallowing.

The Social Impact

Loneliness and social isolation can trigger a low appetite in seniors. When dining alone, older adults may feel less inclined to eat properly or take the time to prepare meals. Stress and depression can also make eating difficult and unappealing.

If mealtimes feel lonely or stressful, consider eating with a friend or family member. Many senior centers offer transportation, so older adults can eat meals with their peers. Here at The Gardens at ViewPointe, we encourage our residents to socialize and form friendships as they break bread with their neighbors in our community dining room.

Coping Methods for Low Appetite

It's best to face the problem of low appetite as a team with the help of your caregivers and medical providers. Depending on the root cause, they may offer several suggestions to help you on your path to healthy eating.

Small Meals

Consuming large meals can be daunting when you aren't feeling hungry. One of the simplest changes you can try making to your meal routines is to eat 4-5 small offerings a day.

The smaller portions can be easier for your stomach and digestive tract to handle and can help you avoid discomfort from trying to force yourself to clean your plate.

Nutritional Choices

You can decrease the portion size of your meals while still eating the same amount of calories and nutrients by carefully selecting ingredients to optimize nutrition.

For example, candy, white bread and processed foods can fill you up without providing many nutrients. A dietitian can help you personalize menus to your needs, but several nutrient-dense options include:

• Olive oil
• Whole grains
• Seeds and nuts
• Fruits and vegetables

Embrace Snacking

While it may sound counterproductive, snacking can help with your loss of appetite by letting you slowly consume nutrients throughout the day. When snacking, find alternatives to empty fillers like potato chips and pastries.

Instead, reach for finger foods such as unsalted nuts and crunchy veggies with yogurt-based dips for savory treats. Many fruits and berries grow well here in Colorado Springs, CO, and dried or fresh, they make tasty additions to salads, smoothies and trail mixes.

Eat Your Favorites

Consistently rotate your favorite meals into your menu plans. If you dislike what's on your plate, odds are it's going to be difficult to eat it all. Beloved dishes can make eating more enjoyable and help stir up your appetite.

If your favorites are high in fat or sodium, consider adjusting them slightly by draining the grease off meats and tossing in a few herbs to reduce the required salt. Consider adding nostalgic items from your past, including holiday staples. While it's important to keep your selections healthy, it's also okay to include treats now and then to boost your enjoyment and mood.

Vary Meals

Eating a variety of meals is beneficial in two ways:

1. It ensures you consume multiple food types and get a good mixture of nutrients.
2. It helps make meal times more engaging and interesting.

Even when you stick to eating your favorites, vary your selections and try new things that sound appealing. You may find additional options to enjoy.

Go Ergonomic

Pain and mobility issues can make eating a hassle for older adults. Swapping your dinnerware for ergonomic choices can help boost the amount of food eaten at meals by reducing frustrations. There are many easy-grip utensil sets on the market today that can reduce strain on arthritic hands and wrists.

Additionally, you can use dishes, place mats and tablecloths that contrast in color with items being served. The visual distinction can make it easier to see the food and recognize how much you've left on your plate.

Supplement the Difference

It's important to work with your doctor to check your nutritional levels regularly. This lets you and your caregivers catch and treat deficiencies through supplements and meal plan adjustments.

The body absorbs nutrients best from natural foods, so try to eat fresh meals that supply your needs whenever possible. However, supplements can help fill in the gaps in your diet, especially ones caused by dietary restrictions.

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