Many elderly people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia are at high risk of poor nutrition. This occurs due to physical, psychological and emotional reasons. Alzheimer's disease can severely change eating habits and cause other lifestyle changes that affect nutrition. MayoClinic.com warns that malnutrition in elderly people can lead to health problems such as depression, fatigue, muscle weakness, poor bone health, a weakened immune system, anemia, digestive disorders, cardiovascular problems and weight loss. Alzheimer's disease can cause these nutritional implications for several reasons.
Confusion
Alzheimer's disease can lead to forgetfulness and confusion. The Alzheimer's Association notes that this can lead to poor nutrition and weight loss. The patient may forget to eat or become confused about whether he needs to eat. In some cases, people may be unable to decide which food on their plate to eat first or even how they should be eaten. For this reason, doctors recommend that patients with Alzheimer's disease be given simple foods that are served one at a time. This ensures that they are eaten and the patient is not confused.
Loss of Appetite
Alzheimer's disease can lead to grief, loneliness, frustration, a loss of independence and other factors that contribute to depression. MayoClinic.com notes that this can cause a loss of appetite, loss of interest in food and unwillingness to eat in elderly adults. The poor nutrition can lead to worsening of the depression, dementia and other effects of Alzheimer's disease.
Weight Loss
Diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia lead to confusion, frustration and agitation that can make the patient become nervous, jittery and pace about needlessly burning calories. The Alzheimer's Association notes that this agitation, in addition to poor eating habits, can lead to rapid weight loss in those with Alzheimer's disease.
Loss of Independence
As Alzheimer's disease progresses, the patient loses the ability to care for herself and requires regular supervision. MayoClinic.com cautions that in some cases, this loss of function can lead to difficulty with chewing and swallowing. The Mayo Clinic recommends thicker liquids that are easier to swallow than thin liquids and do not require chewing, as food does. Nutritional supplements in liquid form help the patient receive a well-balanced diet.
