It is quite common for people to start losing weight as they get older. Sometimes this can be because of illness or unexplained loss of appetite. Sometimes it may be that a person thinks they are eating enough but they are not eating the right kind of diet and may not be getting the right nutrients. If you are concerned about your relative’s weight loss read on for information.

Problems associated with weight loss

Being underweight or losing weight suddenly can have serious implications for the elderly. It can have an increased risk to health including bone fractures and skin conditions as well as leaving them at increased risk of infections because of a weakened immune system. It can also mean nutritional deficiency.

Sudden loss of weight

If you notice that your elderly relative appears to have had a dramatic loss of weight for no clear reason the first thing you should do is encourage them to see their GP to make sure there is no medical reason for the weight loss. Once you rule this out you can look at what you can do to remedy the situation.

Ensure they get the nutrients they need

A loss of appetite in the elderly is very common and when this happens it can be difficult to get them to eat very much. In order to ensure they get all the nutrients and energy from food you can formulate a plan with their live-in carer to:

·      Move them away from the idea of eating three large meals a day and instead put together a menu of more manageable smaller meals and snacks

·      Make sure they don’t eat too many sweet treats like cakes, biscuits, sweets and fizzy drinks which just provide nutritionally empty calories. Tinned or fresh fruit is a healthier alternative

·      Give filling and calorific foods like milky puddings and drinks, and foods containing cheese.

To stimulate the appetite

High energy and nutritious meals and snacks are essential but they should be things that are simple and easy for them to manage such as:

·      Beans on toast (well-buttered and thinly-sliced bread) with cheese sprinkles

·      Sardines or peanut butter on toast

·      Porridge or rice pudding made with whole milk (essential calcium and vitamin D)

·      Easy to manage main meals could be soups with pasta or meat, or Cottage pie

·      Fish pie topped with milky mashed potato and grated cheese

 Meals shared with friends or family

If your loved one spends time alone or if they’re feeling depressed it is so easy for them to get out of the habit of eating properly. You could arrange for them to attend a local luncheon club regularly. Ensure they always dine with others.

Research by the Live-in Care Hub has found that a live-in carer can spot signs of weight loss and lack of appetite before problems arise.