(NNAE) Aging and Digestive Issues Lesson

Aging and Digestive Issues Lesson 

Along with chewing and hydration issues, another set of problems related to the digestive system may develop. As adults age they can develop Achlorhydria, which is a decrease in the digestion of protein. Some adults already have a hard time digesting meat but when one develops this disorder, it can become harder. Some adults end up taking antacids to help with the digesting. This disorder can have a negative effect on the way the body absorbs vitamin B12, calcium and iron.

Some aging adults also experience delayed gastric emptying. This means that digestion slows down and it takes longer for the body to absorb the nutrients. They may feel fuller longer and will not eat as regularly. This can cause weight loss in some adults because they do not meet their required calorie intake.

Constipation can be an issue for some older adults. Many people do not realize the role that water plays in proper digestion and elimination. When older adults lose their thirst for water, it can cause fiber to bulk up in the intestines. Water is needed to help push the waste through. Others become constipated because they do not have a proper fiber intake due to the inability to eat fresh fruits and vegetables.

Lastly, some people can develop Diverticulosis. This is when an adult develops a pouch in the lining of the colon. It can actually bulge out. Sometimes these pouches become inflamed and can be very uncomfortable. Research has linked this disease with low fiber intake in the adolescent years.

Since the normal adult has stopped growing, a middle-aged and older adult needs to take in 30% less calories than a regular adult. Refer to the chart below to see the amended calorie requirement for older adults.

 

How Many Calories Are Needed?

 

A woman:	who is not physically active needs about 1,600 calories
	who is somewhat active needs about 1,800 calories
	who has an active lifestyle needs about 2,000-2,200 calories
A man:	who is not physically active needs about 2,000 calories
	who is somewhat active needs about 2,200-2,400 calories
	who has an active lifestyle needs about 2,400-2,800 calories

 

Prevention Foods

It is very important to eat the proper foods so that individuals can maintain proper body function. However, certain circumstances do not allow for adults to eat appropriately. For example, tooth decay and other dental issues may cause many older adults to avoid eating meat products, popcorn, or hard candy. Because of this, they may have certain deficiencies. Here are a few of the important vitamins and minerals needed for proper function:

Vitamin B12: Needed for energy -- found in meat and beans.

Vitamin B6: Needed for hemoglobin and also helps maintain blood sugar levels.

Folate: (Part of the B vitamin family) Added to bread and cereal and also found in green leafy vegetables. Helps produce and maintain cells; older adults need it to help produce red blood cells and prevent anemia.

Zinc: A mineral found in meats. Aids in immune function and wound healing.

Water: Needed for hydration and oxygen support. Needed to lubricate joints which helps with arthritis.

Additionally, as adults age, they retire. Their income is perhaps more restrictive than when they were working. Or in some cases, older adults lose the ability to work because of health reasons. When this happens, it might become harder to purchase healthy foods. For health reasons, some seniors may not be able to drive and get the foods they need. There are government programs set in place to help with these issues. Food Assistance Programs like Meals on Wheels and other programs help to deliver healthy meals to seniors who are unable to go to the grocery store or who cannot afford it. Some senior centers may provide meals as well. Sometimes the meals are discounted so that all can afford them. Many local markets and farmer's markets have incentives for seniors, such as discounts for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables.

 

Self-Assessment

Review some of the information from this lesson with the flash cards below.

 

 

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