A 2004 report by the American Geriatric Society indicated that there is no FDA-approved drug for increasing appetite in the elderly. American Family Physician reports, "Elderly patients with unintentional weight loss are at higher risk for infection, depression and death." However, there are activities that can stimulate appetite in elderly patients. Taking into consideration the person's health concerns, you need to weigh the benefits of weight gain activity against the potential risks. Before changing a senior's diet, or proposing long walks around the mall to stimulate hunger, check with her doctor.
Aerobic Exercise
For active seniors in their 60s and 70s, aerobic activity for about 30 minutes daily, most days of the week, can improve health and increase appetite. The American Academy of Family Physicians, says studies have found that seniors who received both nutritional supplements and exercise ate more than patients who received only supplements. Sports and games that qualify as an aerobic exercise include golf, bocce and horseshoes.
Cooking Classes
You're never too old to enroll in a class. The benefits of taking a cooking class are that it allows students to stand. Because standing burns more calories compared with sitting, according to a 2007 study by the University of Missouri, it is in fact considered an activity. Further, the aromas from cooking can spike anyone's appetite. Just be sure it's a class she enjoys. If a person doesn't care for Italian cuisine, for instance, learning how to cook lasagna won't inspire her to sample the assignments.
Walking Laps
For some elderly people, just a few laps around the mall on a cool day or the park on a warm day is about all the exercise he may be able to handle. Some malls have times when they encourage seniors to take advantage of low traffic--like during school hours. And with a food court, he can quickly purchase a snack when the urge hits.
Also, check your area YMCA for mature walking clubs. Packing a sandwich will give the senior less of a reason to ignore those nagging hunger pangs, no matter how mild they may be.
Residential Activities
If you're considering a mature living-facility for an aging relative, call local residential homes and inquire about visiting days for potential clients. Some sites offer social mixers with current residents and groups where they engage folks in on-site activities such as exercise classes and dancing.
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