How Nutritional Needs Change in Older Adults
Nutrition is important, no matter your age. Consuming essential vitamins and minerals boosts our immune system, fuels our bodies, and helps our entire system function properly. Although some older adults may think that older age gives them permission to eat whatever they prefer, eating a healthy diet only grows even more important with age. Aging affects the body and mind. Therefore, consuming adequate nutrition only helps support healthy aging.
If you’re an older adult, you’re probably already aware that your appetite has changed over the years. Certain foods may no longer agree with your stomach, while others seem to have a different taste. If older adults aren’t careful, they could put themselves at risk for serious nutrient deficiencies.
March is National Nutrition Month. It provides the perfect opportunity to discuss nutritional needs and older adults. Here are four ways nutritional needs change in older adults.
Caloric Intake Decreases
Most older adults aren’t as active as they were in their prime for various reasons. Over time, a less active lifestyle causes the basal metabolic rate to drop. This means that older adults generally need fewer calories in order to sustain their body weight. When older adults don’t make adjustments to their daily caloric intake, they can easily gain weight. The U.S. Department for Agriculture provides a tool to help older adults determine their daily caloric allowance. We also recommend that older adults have a conversation with their primary care physician for further guidance.
Absorption of Nutrients Changes
Another change that affects an older adult’s nutritional needs occurs in the stomach. Stomach acid naturally decreases with age, impacting how certain nutrients are (or are not) absorbed. Nutrients that are absorbed by an older adult are often utilized less efficiently. This results in vitamin deficiencies and puts older adults at risk for vision loss, osteoporosis, and anemia. Older adults may want to consider taking supplements to ensure their bodies are receiving adequate nutrients.
Thirst and Hunger Cues Diminish
Some older adults experience a decline in their thirst and hunger sensation. The thirst response diminishes with age, putting older adults at risk for dehydration. Dehydration not only affects the digestive system, but it can cause serious health complications and confusion. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day becomes extremely important in older age. Age can also affect hunger cues, resulting in a low appetite. While it’s natural for older adults to decrease their caloric intake, not consuming enough calories can also lead to serious health complications. Older adults should focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods in order to make every bite count.
Certain Nutrients Become Essential
The following nutrients become absolutely essential in older adulthood:
Vitamin B12 helps maintain healthy brain function. It also is essential for producing red blood cells and generating cell growth. Older adults with neuropathy can benefit from vitamin B12 as it also maintains the proper function of nerve cells.
Calcium and vitamin D support a healthy skeletal system. Older adults need both, as vitamin D helps their bodies absorb calcium.
Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Constipation is rather common among the senior population, particularly amongst those that take prescription medications.
Protein, in combination with strength training exercises, helps protect muscle in older adults. Protein also supports healthy skin, blood, and bones.
Potassium boosts the nervous system, regulates heart contractions, and is essential for maintaining proper kidney function. Potassium can also help naturally lower blood pressure.
Nutritional needs are not the only change older adults may experience as they grow older. Some older adults experience a change in their independence and need help to navigate their day. If you are struggling through your day, Visiting Angels Sheboygan is here to support you. We offer a comprehensive approach to senior home care that encompasses a variety of non-medical care tasks. Our professional caregivers can assist with meal planning and preparation to ensure you get the nutrients you need to age well. They can even share a meal with you, as studies have shown that older adults who eat socially tend to have better nutrition. Please contact us today by calling 920-221-1000 to learn more.