Weight loss often strikes the elderly. Being isolated, and sometimes even depressed is common. Depression can zap the appetite, and feeling lonely and down can leave you without the energy to make or simply eat food. But there are many reasons why seniors may suffer from unintentional weight loss even if they have an appetite and want to eat.
Forgetfulness
Some seniors simply forget to eat. If they suffer from dementia, they may not even recognize hunger pangs and skip meals just because they don't remember how long it's been since they last ate. Some may not remember how to cook or prepare food, or have trouble going to the grocery store. Others may be afraid to try to use the stove or knives -- despite being hungry.
Health Problems and Medications
A number of health problems can result in unintentional weight loss. Serious diseases like cancer or AIDS may cause seniors to drop weight despite having an appetite. Persistent diarrhea can also lead to dehydration and weight loss, as can an illness or infection. And if seniors have uncontrolled overactive thyroid, called hyperthyroidism, they may also drop pounds unintentionally. Many medications, including improperly used laxatives and thyroid drugs, may also result in weight loss as a side effect.
Mouth Problems
Problems with the mouth and teeth are common with elderly people, and they can affect the ability to chew, eat and digest food. If they have tooth loss or dentures that don't fit properly they may not be able to chew food well, and lose weight as a result. Not being able to eat or chew food so that it can be properly digested may lead to problems with malnutrition and weight loss.
Energy
If seniors are lonely and depressed, they may feel fatigued and lack the energy to prepare a meal and eat. They may just snack here and there, but not enough to take in the calories that they need to maintain their weight. They may also not want to put forth the effort that it takes to cook a healthy, balanced meal for only one person. Or, they may not want to eat all alone.
