Eating well in old age
A healthy diet is important as we age, but for a host of reasons many older people are missing out on vital nutrients, experts say.
An article on the ABC News website, suggested as we become older, our dietary needs change.
“However, it becomes harder to ensure we get enough of the nutrients we need, such as calcium, zinc, and folate,” the article stated.
This can cause problems ranging from a higher rate of infections to an increased risk of falls – and it can even mean you have a greater chance of dying at a younger age.
Experts say the problem will only escalate as Australia’s elderly population grows.
“In terms of sheer numbers, the older people there are, the more malnourished people we’re going to have,” says dietitian and associate professor Karen Charlton, of the school of health sciences at the University of Wollongong.
Professor Charlton says there are many reasons elderly people become malnourished, but people who are sick or live alone are more susceptible.
“Some illnesses such as cancer can reduce appetite,” she explains.
“While many medications can increase our requirements for vital nutrients such as calcium or iron,” she adds.
“Older people tend to use lots of prescribed medications and often they can interact with each other which can cause problems with nutrient absorption, digestion and appetite.
“Depression and loneliness, especially after a period of bereavement, can also impact quite severely on a person’s willingness to eat,” Professor Charlton says.
Aside from health problems, for many older people, social and financial issues can also be a reason they are not eating the right foods.
