Many people spend a lifetime trying to lose unwanted weight or avoid weight gain. For elderly people, however, weight loss that is secondary to depression, medications or health conditions can be dangerous. Addressing weight loss in your senior family member or loved one often depends on the underlying cause. According to HowToCare.com, weight loss of more than 5 percent of body weight or more in one month should be investigated. Talk to your loved one's doctor if you are concerned by unexplained weight loss.
Step 1
Investigate possible depression. According to American Family Physician, depression or other psychiatric disorders is among the leading causes of unexplained or unintended weight loss in seniors. HowToCare.com adds that particularly for an elderly person who lives alone, the motivation to prepare meals may decrease due to loneliness. Talk with your loved one about feelings of loneliness or depression, and if you suspect that this is the case, see a doctor regarding possible treatment. Addressing the underlying cause will likely help, and some antidepressants may even promote weight gain, American Family Physician reports.
Step 2
Inventory all medications. According to HowToCare.com, some medications can have an impact on the body's ability to properly absorb and process nutrients. This may lead to weight loss. Moreover, some medications can impair the ability to smell, which detracts from the ability to taste. Although these senses usually decline with age to some degree, medications can make it worse. Talk to a doctor about whether a particular medication can be safely discontinued or cut back. In cases of decreased sense of taste or smell, you may consider adding flavor enhancers to foods, reports American Family Physician.
Step 3
Decrease or remove dietary restrictions, with a doctor's permission. American Family Physician notes that many restricted diets, such as low-sodium or low-cholesterol diets, may lead to unwanted weight loss. Such diets may be bland and not conducive to a healthy appetite. Decreasing some dietary restrictions in a safe way might promote a renewed interest in eating. Discuss all dietary modifications, and their possible repercussions, with a doctor.
Step 4
Discuss possible health conditions. A complete medical workup can benefit an elderly person who is losing weight. According to HowToCare.com, a condition as simple as constipation may be at the root of the weight loss. Rule out potential health problems that could be causing weight loss, and discuss their treatment with a doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- Supplement with liquid nutrition. According to American Family Physician, these can boost calorie count. Don't offer them with meals, though, as this tends to be overwhelming. Encourage exercise. HowToCare.com reports that exercise promotes muscle strength and may trigger appetite.
Things You'll Need
- Flavor-enhancers
- Liquid nutrition supplenents
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