Released July 21, 2009
STILLWATER, Okla. – It is a well-known fact that good nutrition can help keep a person healthy. But as a person ages there are some factors that can hinder the ability to eat nutritionally.
Janice Hermann, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension nutrition specialist, said there are physical, social, emotional, medical and financial factors that can play a role in an older adult’s ability to eat a healthy meal.
“Many older adults notice a decrease in the amount of saliva they produce,” Hermann said. “Saliva is important because it moistens food and makes swallowing easier. With decreased saliva, food may seem dry and more difficult to swallow.”
Changes in an older adult’s teeth also may pose a problem when it comes to eating. Tooth loss makes eating and chewing foods difficult. Dentures that do not fit well can cause problems as well.
In addition, poor chewing can increase the risk of choking. Hermann said individuals with tooth loss, gum disease or poor fitting dentures tend to eat softer foods or limit food intake, which can in turn lead to a poor diet.
“Be sure to have a beverage with meals. Also, try using gravy or other sauces if chewing or swallowing is a problem. Shred raw vegetables or fruits and use them in salads, gelatins or stir-fry,” she said. “Something else to keep in mind is that taste and smell tend to decline with age and foods that an older person used to enjoy may not taste the same.”
Meats in particular can be difficult to chew and swallow. Try using thinly sliced meat that is easy to bite through. Also, softer meats or meat alternatives may be easier to consume. Moist meat loaf, soft meat salad, deviled eggs, milk-based puddings or custards, meat- or milk-based soups or egg salad are some alternatives that are easier to eat.
A decrease in muscle mass is common as a person ages. This can result in lower strength, energy, mobility and balance. This can make grocery shopping, cooking and even eating more difficult. Joint problems also impact a person’s mobility. Problems with vision can hamper shopping trips as well as make it more difficult to prepare healthy foods.
“Loss of social contact is another issue that many older adults must face at one time or another,” Hermann said. “Although some older adults may not realize it at first, loneliness can lead to lower interest in shopping, cooking and eating.”
Although it may not be a problem for all older adults, depression does affect a percentage of the older population. Loss of social contact, retirement and loss of family and friends can cause depression. Some medications also may cause symptoms of depression.
“Some medications can decrease a person’s appetite, while other medications may cause nausea,” she said. “These all are factors that can lead to lower food consumption.”
A fixed income is an issue some older adults are faced with. This can result in less money for food or transportation to shop. Some individuals may have downsized their home and are faced with less space for cooking or storing food.
“A healthy diet is essential for everyone, and especially for older adults,” Hermann said. “Good nutrition is key for a healthy lifestyle.”
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Writer: Trisha Gedon, 405-744-3625, trisha.gedon@okstate.edu
