Malnourishment is a serious health problem in the aging population. According to a report from WebMD, more than half of all Americans aged 65-and-over seen at emergency departments are either malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. Reasons given for this troubling phenomenon include dental problems, depression and difficulty getting groceries.

If you’re looking after for an aging in place elderly parent this news can certainly keep you up at night. Here’s how to ensure that an elderly parent stays well nourished even when you’re not there.

Health Problems Linked to Malnutrition

Malnutrition is caused by either eating too little food or eating foods that lack enough essential nutrients. Although that sounds simple, malnutrition in the elderly typically results from a combination of social, physical and psychological factors.

Once a senior becomes malnourished, they can experience these health problems:

  • Slow wound healing
  • Memory loss (Vitamin B12 deficiency)
  • Weakened immune system, which increases the risk for infection
  • Muscle weakness and reduced bone mass, making falls and fractures more likely
  • Higher risk for hospitalizations and even death

To make matters even worse, nutritional deficiencies oftentimes get misdiagnosed because they can mimic other health problems commonly seen in the elderly.

Keeping an Aging Parent Well Nourished

Here are ways to help ensure that your elderly parent is eating a healthier, nutrient-rich diet and staying well nourished:

Monitor Their Weight

Keep a weekly log to monitor your parent’s weight at home. Look for signs that they are losing weight, like a frail, gaunt appearance or when their clothes fit too loose. If you live far away enlist the help of a neighbor or close friend to check in on mom or dad. When weight loss is a concern consult your loved one’s doctor.

Inspect Their Fridge

Peek inside your parent’s fridge and cabinets to see what they’re eating and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their diet. If transportation or lack of income is a problem offer to take your loved one to the grocery store or have groceries delivered right to their home. This will allow you to limit foods with little or no nutritional value, like chips, soda, cookies and alcohol.

Drop Off Meals

If you live nearby prepare some nutritious meals for mom or dad in advance and then drop them off when you have time. Loss of taste is common in the elderly so use herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Cut up fresh fruit and veggies for healthy snacks, and if your parent has trouble swallowing blend them some healthy smoothies and stock their fridge with nutritious shakes.

Encourage Participation

If your parent is still mobile encourage them to participate in social programs where older adults in the community come together to share meals and conversation. In general, social interaction on a regular basis helps promote a healthier appetite.

Book a Dental Exam

If chewing discomfort is keeping your senior from eating like they should, take them to the dentist for a checkup. Sometimes a new filling or set of dentures is all it takes so that your loved one gets the essential nutrients their body needs.

Meal Delivery Services

Another option you have is setting your loved one up with a meal delivery service that will bring nutritious meals right to their door. Some of the best meal delivery services for seniors include Freshology, Diet-to-Go and Silver Cuisine.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise stimulates a senior’s appetite and strengthens bones and muscles, so encourage your parent to participate in low-impact forms of exercise like walking, Yoga, Pilates or water aerobics. You can also help them sign up for the Silver Sneakers program.

Keeping Seniors Well Nourished Is Our Specialty

It’s hard to monitor your aging loved one’s eating habits and diet when you can’t always be there. When you need an extended family in the home contact Seniors Prefer Homecare. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency our compassionate caregivers have the training and experience necessary to keep your elderly parent well nourished so they can continue aging safely and comfortably right where they want to be.

In addition to grocery shopping assistance and meals, our carefully screened aides can deliver family trusted in-home services like personal care, companionship care, household duties and even dementia care. Our agency’s mission is lifting the spirits of those we serve by offering them dependable and affordable home care options. To learn more about Seniors Prefer Homecare now, or to schedule a FREE consultation for a senior in Tuscaloosa or Huntsville, AL, today, please visit us at: www.seniorspreferhomecare.com!