(NNAE) Nutrition for the Aging Population Lesson

Nutrition for the Aging Population Lesson 

 

 

Aging corresponds with a decreased demand for calories. This happens because the metabolism slows down and people become less active as they age. Their diets begin to change. Sense of taste and sense of smell may change. Foods may seem to have lost flavor. Also, medicines can change how food tastes. They can also make you feel less hungry.

As diets change, so do lifestyles. Many older adults find themselves alone for most of the day. Children have moved out and it is just the two of them at home. They need fewer groceries and may feel burdened cooking for only two people. Some of them may not enjoy eating leftovers, so they may choose to go out to eat more often.

Older adults face many changes with food and wellness. Many times they cannot eat the foods they once ate. Some people become lactose intolerant. They have symptoms like stomach pain, gas, or diarrhea after eating or drinking something with milk in it, like ice cream. Most can eat a small amount of food without consequence or can try yogurt, buttermilk, or hard cheese. Lactose-free foods are available now as well.

Some older adults lose the ability to chew food properly. This could be because of the loss of teeth or food textures that are too hard to chew. Many adults get dentures which replace their teeth. These need to be fitted properly or they can be very uncomfortable and cause sores.

Thirst sensation may diminish as well. They feel less need to drink water, however, they still have the need for hydration. As a result, it is important that seniors drink plenty of liquids like water, juice, milk, and soup and don't wait until they feel thirsty. Several large glasses of water are needed for proper body function. A good way to tell if you are getting enough water is to check your urine. It should be a pale yellow color.

 

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