It's natural for adults to experience both physical and emotional changes as they get older. As a caregiver, you might notice your elderly parents seem to eat less than they used to. Here are a few potential reasons they no longer have an appetite and steps you can take to encourage them to eat more.

What Causes Elderly People to Lose Their Appetites?

Taste buds shrink as a person gets older, which means it could be difficult to taste sweet, salty, or sour foods. The diminished sense of taste could be the reason your loved one has lost their appetite. 

It's not uncommon for seniors to experience depression due to isolation and lack of social interaction with others, too. This mood change can contribute to appetite changes as well. 

The loss of appetite could also be a symptom of a physical ailment that needs to be addressed. Your loved one should visit their primary care doctor for a thorough examination. They can determine whether a thyroid disorder or another health condition could be the cause. A dentist can see whether cavities, gum recession, or another dental problem is making chewing painful. 

How to Get Your Loved One to Eat

As a caregiver, you want to make sure your loved one gets the nutrients they need to remain healthy. That's why you should schedule meals at the same time each day. They will get used to the routine and start to get hungry in anticipation of a meal. 

You can also reduce the serving size, as they might be more inclined to eat when they don't have to finish a large portion. Just make sure to prepare foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as salads with dark greens and low-fat yogurt for a snack, as seniors need these nutrients to keep their bones strong. Lentils, whole grain breads, and other sources of dietary fiber promote heart health. 

Due to arthritis and other joint problems, your loved one's fine motor function might have declined. Serve vegetable slices, chicken strips, and other foods they can eat using their fingers so they don't have to struggle to hold utensils.

Serving as a full-time caregiver for an elderly parent can be challenging, which is why you should reach out to the professionals at family-owned and -operated Twin Oaks At Heritage Pointe in Wentzville and O'Fallon, MO, for help. For four decades, the residential care facility has been providing comfortable accommodations and activities to help seniors still enjoy independent living as they get older. Learn more about their retirement community features and amenities online, call (636) 542-5400 to make arrangements with a representative, and visit Facebook for updated announcements.