Poor nutrition in elderly adults is fairly common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey show that only 17 percent of adults ages 60 and older consumed a good quality diet. Poor nutrition in elderly women can have serious implications if not corrected. Elderly women are at risk of malnutrition for several reasons: they require fewer calories for weight maintenance, may have a hard time tolerating certain foods, and they often experience a lack of appetite and feelings of thirst.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies such as iron-deficiency anemia can occur in elderly women who consume a poor-quality diet. According to the American Dietetic Association, important nutrients for elderly women include vitamin D, calcium, zinc and vitamin B12. Calcium and vitamin D are important for bone and teeth health and zinc helps with wound healing and vision. Supplementation may be necessary in older women to help prevent nutrient deficiencies. The U.S. Department of Agriculture MyPyramid Plan helps women of all ages plan healthy meals appropriate for their age, height, weight and activity level.
Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss is an effect from poor nutrition in elderly women. Since older women typically have reduced appetites and may not eat as much as younger women, eating nutrient-dense foods becomes more important. Foods including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, dairy products, nuts, seeds and other healthy fats such as vegetable oils are encouraged for older women by the American Dietetic Association.
Muscle Weakness
Muscle weakness is a sign of malnutrition in older adults, according to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Muscle weakness can affect an elderly woman's quality of life and may lead to falls and bone fractures. Anemia is a form of malnutrition that can cause weakness in elderly women.
Weak Immune System
Elderly women's immune systems are generally weaker than those of younger women, even with adequate nutrition. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that a weakened immune system is an effect that can also be caused by malnutrition in elderly individuals. Weaker immune systems are more prone to infections and other illnesses.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a concern for elderly women and men. Elderly women often don't feel thirsty when their bodies need fluids. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends older women drink at least 64 oz. of fluids each day to help avoid dehydration and constipation.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Eating Index Scores Among Adults, 60 Years of Age and Over, by Sociodemographic and Health Characteristics: United States, 1999 -- 2002
- American Dietetic Association: Nutrition for Older Women
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research: Senior Health: How to Detect and Prevent Malnutrition
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: A Healthy Lifestyle for Women 65 and Older
