Tucson, AZ (PRWEB) March 30, 2019
As we age, what we eat becomes more important. Our bodies need nutrients to stay healthy, but
chronic illness, medications that suppress appetite, and a lack of interest in formerly favorite foods can
reduce the quality of our diets and our wellbeing. Older adults who live alone can be particularly
susceptible to poor eating habits, as there is no one present on a consistent basis to monitor the types
and quantity of food being consumed.
The Aging Life Care Association is a proud partner of Go4Life, the National Institute on Aging’s program
that educates older adults on maintaining healthy habits. Below are some tips from Go4Life on solving
common eating issues:
1. Isolation and Eating Alone
Older adults can be prone to increased isolation and reduced socialization. In turn, the older
adult may start eating less, or not at all. Finding communities through local churches and senior
centers that provide meals can help promote better eating habits.
2. Unable to Cook Anymore
Physical ailments, reduced mobility, and injury can stop older adults from being able to cook.
Local resources like Meals on Wheels can provide nutritious, hot food on a regular basis, as well
as company.
3. Problems Chewing and Swallowing
A reduced ability to chew and swallow meats, fruits, and vegetables can cause older adults to
become malnourished. Make an appointment with your doctor and/or dentist to get the
medical support necessary to continue to eat healthily.
4. Food is No Longer Interesting or Flavorful
Depression, medication side effects, or changing senses as we age can make foods that were
once a favorite unappealing. Try new foods and spices, vary your physical activity, and stay in
communication with family and healthcare professionals about your eating habits.
5. Dehydration
Older adults can have a difficult time drinking enough water to stay hydrated. Try to include a
variety of beverages, like tea or lemonade, or slice up fruits to add to water.
Families who have a long-distance older family member, or an older family member who lives alone, can
find support through an Aging Life Care Professional, also known as geriatric care managers. ALCPs use
their expertise, experience, and resources to coordinate needed aging services, communicate effectively
with family members and health care professionals, and provide on-the-ground support for older adults.
Aging Life Care Professionals can help monitor an older adult’s food intake, communicate any concerns
to family members or guardians, and support the adult in getting the resources they need to continue to
eat healthily and age well. You can find an Aging Life Care Professional in your area at aginglifecare.org.
ABOUT the Aging Life Care Association ® (ALCA): ALCA (formerly known as the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers) was formed in 1985 to advance dignified care for older adults and their families in the United States. Aging Life Care Professionals® have extensive training and experience working with older adults, people with disabilities, and families who need assistance with caregiving issues. They assist families in the search for a suitable nursing home placement or extended care if the need occurs. The practice of Aging Life Care™ and the role of care providers have captured a national spotlight, as generations of Baby Boomers age in the United States and abroad. For more information or to access a nationwide directory of Aging Life Care Professionals, please visit http://www.aginglifecare.org.