VISITING ANGELS HORSHAM, PA 215-938-7202
Facebook YouTube X Instagram LinkedIn
Malnutrition in Seniors

Malnutrition in Seniors

Anyone can suffer from malnutrition, but seniors tend to be at a higher risk. As we age, we become more susceptible to certain diseases such as cancer or diabetes. These conditions can impact appetite and turn a well-nourished individual into someone who lacks the nutrition they need to stay healthy. In fact, according to the Alliance for Aging Research, nearly 65 percent of senior adults who have been hospitalized face malnutrition.

The good news is unless caused by a chronic condition, malnutrition is preventable and curable. Understanding malnutrition can help seniors make changes to keep themselves healthy.

What is Malnutrition

Malnutrition refers to when a person isn't consuming enough nutrients to fuel their body correctly. It's primarily caused by poor diet but can also be a symptom of a digestive condition. Signs of malnutrition include weight loss, dizziness, and fatigue. If left untreated, malnutrition can lead to severe physical conditions such as organ failure. Malnutrition can also lead to slower recovery from illness, a higher risk of infection, and difficulty focusing.

When people think of a malnourished person, they often picture an underweight individual. While weight loss is a primary symptom of malnutrition, obesity can also be a sign of malnutrition. If someone eats a lot but isn't eating nutrient-rich foods, their body isn't receiving what it needs to function.

Preventing Malnutrition in Seniors

Unless caused by an underlying medical condition, malnutrition is a preventable disease. Consider the following to keep your body healthy and functioning correctly.

  • Cook more meals at home. A lot of seniors may not realize they're at risk for malnutrition because they eat regularly. However, even if you're eating the recommended calories per day, you may not be consuming the proper nutrients and therefore, putting yourself at risk for malnutrition. Eating premade foods, packaged dinners, or fast food may feel filling and be more convenient, but they're not giving your body want it needs to function. Instead, try cooking well-balanced meals at home using fresh produce and lean meats. Include nutrient-rich items such as salmon, spinach, berries, and oats. If you're not sure what to eat, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist for a personalized meal plan.
  • Have a regular eating schedule. Sometimes if you're malnourished, you may not feel signs of hunger. When your body doesn't remind you to eat, it's easy to skip meals, further putting you at risk. To keep from accidentally skipping meals, create a meal schedule, so you eat at the same time every day. Even if you don't feel hungry, encourage yourself to eat something small and healthy, like an apple or a small bowl of oats.
  • Engage in physical activity. If you're experiencing a loss of appetite, partaking in light physical fitness can help. Not only does exercise improve your overall wellbeing, but it also induces hunger. Stick to activity with low to moderate intensity, such as walking or yoga. If you suffer from a physical condition, consult your doctor before starting any new workout routine.
  • Talk to your doctor about vitamins and supplements. As the body ages, the way it absorbs nutrients changes, putting seniors at risk for deficiencies. The most common vitamins and minerals missing from most seniors' diets include calcium, Vitamin B, and iron.  Even if you don't believe you suffer from malnutrition, you should talk to your doctor about monitoring and improving your vitamin intake.

How Visiting Angels Can Help

If you or a loved one needs assistance preparing nutrient-rich meals, Visiting Angels can help. Visiting Angels' caregivers can assist seniors with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and cleaning the kitchen after cooking. Our caregivers also help with additional personal care needs such a grooming or light housekeeping. Our Horsham office serves those in Horsham, Hatboro, Willowgrove, Ambler Lower Gwynedd, Spring House, and the surrounding areas. If you'd like to learn more about our services, give us a call at 215.938.7202.

Serving Horsham, Hatboro, Willow Grove, Ambler, Lower Gwynedd, Spring House and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels HORSHAM, PA
300 Welsh Rd Bldg 1 #131
Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: 215-938-7202

Serving Horsham, Hatboro, Willow Grove, Ambler, Lower Gwynedd, Spring House and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels HORSHAM, PA
300 Welsh Rd Bldg 1 #131
Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: 215-938-7202