New information appears almost daily making connections between nutrition and physical illness. For example, many foods containing lots of fat or sugar content are already linked with heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Aging and the health problems that go along with it often bring about depression, which can be exacerbated or even caused by malnutrition.
Appetite Decline
Appetite and food intake decline naturally with age as activity levels decrease, reducing the need for extra calories. However, other factors can impact appetite as well, such as disease, medication, physical disabilities, dental issues, and reduction in the senses of smell, taste and sight. Socio-economic factors can also hinder food intake for senior citizens who lack transportation or funds to purchase healthy food. According to the National Institute on Aging, the result of poor nutrition is a reduction in the vital nutrients and minerals needed for the body to function properly, physically and psychologically.
Vitamin Deficiencies
A lack of B vitamins in particular has been related to depression. Registered dietitian Bonnie Beardsley reports that B6 is connected with the production of serotonin, one of the "feel good" hormones in the brain, and a lack of B6 can affect mood well before any significant deficiency occurs, especially in women. Foods rich in B6 include cereals, peanut butter, nuts, seeds, and even many herbs and spices. Beardsley adds that a shortage of folic acid and a lack of carbohydrates are also associated with downbeat moods.
Malnutrition
The Mayo Clinic warns that malnutrition is a serious health issue in senior citizens, possibly leading to poor immune response, muscle wasting, heart problems and anemia, or lack of iron in the blood,. Recommendations include observing senior citizens' eating habits and what medications they take as possible warning signs. Physical signs of malnutrition include weight loss, wounds that are slow to heal and dental problems.
Depression
Senior citizen suicide is on the rise. In fact, the National Institute of Mental Health reports that in 2004, 16 percent of suicides occurred in the elderly population, a rate that is out of proportion with other demographics. Unfortunately, depression often eludes detection in the elderly. In the majority of these suicides, the individuals had recently visited their physician, and the signs went undetected. Signs of depression in the elderly include irritability, change in sleeping habits, feelings of guilt, memory problems and lack of interest in activities normally enjoyable to them.
Prevention/Solution
Spend enough time with senior citizens in your life to ensure they are receiving proper nutrition and health care. Encourage them to exercise or engage in physical activity regularly. They may need assistance in finding healthy and easy food options either from you or a professional, and possibly even financial assistance. Meals on Wheels is a service offered to senior citizens in many areas. Check with your local health department. Be proactive in senior citizens' health care and help communicate to their doctors any nutrition or depression signs or symptoms.
