Loss of appetite may be a fairly common issue among elderly adults, but this doesn’t mean you should ignore it. If your parent is not feeling hungry, or is forgetting to eat, they could be putting their health and well-being at risk. Not eating enough on a regular basis diminishes the quality of nutrition they get, which can make them more vulnerable to illness and infection, weaken their bones and make it more likely they will experience a serious injury, and even compromise their cognitive and mental health and well-being. As their family caregiver, it is important for you to take as many steps as possible to help them get the nutrition they need even while they are dealing with loss of appetite.
Use these tips to help you or senior with loss of appetite get the nutrition they need to stay healthy:
- Don’t focus on the importance of eating three large meals in a day. This is not necessary and there is no rule that says a person has to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Instead, focus on balancing your parent’s nutrition and getting them to consume the nutrients they need regularly
- Pack as much nutrition into the early part of the day as possible so they don’t have to worry about it later. Starting the morning with a smoothie featuring fruits, vegetables, protein, and fiber gives them a boost of energy and takes care of much of their nutritional needs for the day. Try a combination of cucumbers, spinach, bananas, oranges, protein powder, yogurt or tofu, and flax
- Pre-package some healthy snacks and small meals for them and put them in the refrigerator or on the counter if they are stable. This will make the visible to your parent, which can remind them to eat even if they are not feeling particularly hungry
- As often as possible, eat with your parent. This will make eating a more social experience, which can encourage them to eat more often and make healthier choices
Elder care can be one of the best decisions you can make for your senior as a family caregiver. An elderly home care services provider can supplement the care you are already giving your senior to ensure your parent gets the support and assistance they need on a daily basis. The goal of this type of personalized care is to help your parent to manage their challenges and limitations, while also encouraging them to maintain control over their life and a sense of independence and autonomy. When it comes to helping your parent to enjoy a more active and healthier life, these personalized services can include meal and snack preparation, assistance with mobility needs, help with tasks throughout the home, help with personal care needs, medication reminders, and more.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Lockwood, MT, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today at 406-839-2390.
