Elderly Weight Loss

November 18, 2009 · Filed Under Uncategorized · Comments Off 

Weight loss in the elderly should never be ignored. When elderly weight loss occurs it may be a sign of declining health. Any weight loss of 5% in period of six months should be assessed along with taking steps to prevent further weight loss. Aggressive intervention is recommended and will not only improve quality of life , but will also increase mortality.

There are many factors associated with aging that work against maintaining weight. One of the primary causes of elderly weight loss is depression. Mounting health problems both physical and mental are usually the reason why seniors become depressed.

Medications are another factor to take into consideration. The list of medications need to be analyzed and adjusted on an ongoing basis. Look the medications up online to find dosage, side effects, interactions, warnings and so forth so that you are well informed.

The first priority in reversing elderly weight loss is to identify and treat the cause. One of the most important factors is making sure they have access to good nutritional food. In addition, a dental check up may be needed to see if there’s difficulty or pain while chewing.

The use of liquid nutritional supplements , such as high energy drinks that are high in calories along with increased food intake can also help reverse weight loss. Some type of multi-vitamin supplement may be needed as well to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiency.

Unintentional weight loss is common in the elderly, however, if you take the necessary steps to reverse it you will continue to improve and live a healthy productive life.

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