How to Spot Signs of a Malnourished Condition in Your Elderly Loved Ones

Malnutrition among seniors living in nursing homes or in at home care, is a common problem. Not only do they receive rationed foods, but in many cases, aren’t being fed as often as is required for proper nutrition levels. With this in mind, there are certain spots you can sign to determine if this is a problem in a home or with at home care your loved ones are receiving. If you require legal help or simply want to learn more about those signs, click here.

Health concerns – 
Dental issues, mental signs, problems like dementia, are all signs of improper diet. If you notice these, or other health conditions popping up frequently, make sure you visit the appropriate doctors immediately. Not only will they help with a balanced diet plan but can provide the much needed medical careattention your elderly loved ones require.

Restricted diet – 
In the event you notice an elderly family member only eating certain foods, limiting fats or sugar intakes (below the required daily levels), or other restrictions are in place, these can be signs of malnutrition as well. A dietitian or other medical professional should be able to assist with meal planning, proper dietary guidelines,setting up balanced meal plans, to avoid issues with weight loss or improper diet concerns moving forward.

Depression – 
Yes, when you don’t give your body what it needs, it can become depressed. If you notice a loved one is angry, constantly sad, doesn’t want to do anything, or otherwise wishes to be alone all of the time, all of these might be signs of malnutrition. Making sure you take them to the appropriate medical professional, find out what is causing their dietary issues,making changes where appropriate, are all ways in which to combat depressionother signs of anguish or vulnerability.

Weight loss – 
If you notice a huge dip in their weight, the way in which they carry themselves, or if you can start to see skinbones in areas you shouldn’t, these are also tell tale signs of malnutrition. A proper, healthy, balanced diet should be in place for your loved ones; regardless of which medical concerns or issues they are dealing with, they should be eating sufficient nutrientscaloric content daily. If you notice weight loss rapidly, or a difference in their demeanorway they eat (a loss of appetite regularly), these are also signs that malnutrition might be an issue which a loved one is suffering from.

More often than not, these are problems which loved ones do not want to share with you, or will not inform you of; especially if it is taking care while under nursing home or at home care. Whether it is fear or their lack of personal control, many elderly individuals are ashamed of or scared to ask for help. If you notice these signs, not only should you consider seeking out professional medical attention, but also change the habits, eating patterns,different lifestyle changes in elderly loved ones you are concerned about.