Understanding Why Elderly People Refuse Food
Elderly people refuse food for many reasons and it’s not always a cause for alarm. Physical changes can occur as we age that contribute to a decreased appetite, including a slower metabolic rate, and less active lifestyle. It can also result from an existing medical condition, such as dementia or hypothyroidism, mental illness, or medication.
Physical Causes
Physical causes of a person not eating can include a fear of choking if the person is struggling to swallow, tooth pain, or a lack of taste or smell.
Psychological Factors
Emotional causes of someone not eating can include worries about putting on weight or concerns about not getting to the toilet in time.
Signs That Loss of Appetite May Be a Serious Concern
Some people deliberately take preparations that can dull appetite, but these should be discussed with a healthcare professional nonetheless. An unexpected loss of appetite can signal a change in health that needs investigating and should certainly be brought to their attention. Other signs include:
Rapid Weight Loss
Rapid weight loss can result the person is not taking in enough calories to sustain their activity levels. This can be deliberate, if someone is living with an eating disorder such as anorexia, or lack of hunger.
Changes in Behaviour
If the person is living with dementia, then they may exhibit changes in behaviour, and their attitude towards food may change. This can also be the case if someone is depressed, anxious, or under stress.
Steps You Can Take to Encourage Eating
Creating a Pleasant Mealtime Environment
Serving meals in a quiet space where the person will be uninterrupted may help to reduce anxiety and encourage eating. Don’t rush mealtimes; make it a calm experience and leave plenty of time before appointments.
Offering Small, Frequent, Appetising Meals
Some people will be discouraged from eating by seeing how much is on their plate. Serving smaller, attractive meals often ensures that eating won’t be feared, and that food remains hot and appetising throughout.
Involving the Person in Meal Planning
If possible, always involve the person, as it will ensure the food in front of them is something they enjoy and that they’re more likely to be tempted by. If they’re not able to tell you themselves, perhaps family can help.
Considering Visiting or Live-In Care Support
Visiting Care
Live-in Care
Planning Long-Term for Nutritional Needs
If the person is living with a deteriorating condition, it is a good idea to make sure all of their care preferences are recorded while they’re able to express them. If the person is living with dementia, for instance, they may eventually become non-verbal, so keeping a record of what they like to eat may help further on.
Creating a Sustainable Meal Plan
If the person’s food and drink preferences have already been recorded in their care plan, they can be tempted with old favourites if their appetite begins to wane. Meal plans should always be flexible and non-rigid, in case care needs change.
Monitoring Health and Weight
The person should be monitored regularly for fluctuating weight and any noticeable signs of a change in health. Carers, whether family members or professionals, can do this, but it should also be reported to healthcare professionals.
Communicating with Professionals
Family members often have Power of Attorney (POA) to speak to healthcare professionals on their loved one’s behalf, but even if that isn’t in place family and care professionals should still raise concerns and accompany them to appointments.
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