Poor Nutrition in Older Adults: Causes and Solutions

Some common causes of poor nutrition for older adults are described below, along with possible solutions.

Issue: No Appetite, No Taste.
Possible Causes: Prescription medications, Loneliness.
Solutions:

• Ask a physician to review your medications that may affect taste and appetite.
• For loneliness, eat with friends, family or senior groups. Use spices and herbs to flavor food.
   

Issue: Cannot Chew.
Possible Causes: Poor oral health. Missing teeth. Poorly fitting dentures. Sores in the mouth.
Solutions:

• Substitute fruit juices and soft canned fruits like applesauce, peaches and pears instead of fresh fruit.
• Substitute vegetable juices creamed and mashed cooked vegetables instead of raw vegetables.
• Substitute ground meats in place of whole meats. Use eggs, yogurt, puddings and soup. Cook all foods until soft and tender. 

 
Issue: Cannot Cook.
Possible Cause: Poor physical health.
Solutions:

• Use the microwave oven to cook TV dinners, other frozen foods and ready-to-eat foods.
• Take part in senior citizen meal programs or participate in home delivered meals programs.
   

Issue: Not enough money.
Possible Cause: Fixed income.
Solutions:

• Use low cost foods like dried beans or pasta.
• Use coupons and food stamps.
• Participate in group senior meals.