Dietary insufficiencies among the elderly: underlying causes and implications of appetite loss
Emilia Szymańska
2026-03-19
3 min. read
Dietary insufficiencies among the elderly: underlying causes and implications of appetite loss
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Adequate nutritional intake among elderly populations represents a critical yet frequently overlooked component of therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving both physical and cognitive well-being in later life. Regrettably, individuals aged 65 and above exhibit an alarmingly low level of awareness regarding the principles of balanced nutrition, resulting in widespread malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and vitamin insufficiencies. These metabolic disturbances not only compromise immune function but also contribute to cognitive decline and impaired motor skills, substantially diminishing the overall quality of life for older adults
Lack of appetite in the elderly
With the passage of time, there are changes in our bodies. They also affect the work and functioning of the digestive system. In this case, it is backward changes. Starting with the oral cavity Older people often complain of paradox and diarrhea After age 65, there are also frequent deficiencies in tooth decay. For the elderly it is often difficult to admit that there are problems with digestion and digestion. After age 65 there is also a significant decrease in the amount of saliva produced by the saliva.
Malnutrition in the elderly
The risk of malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies increases with age, and one of the main causes of undernourishment in our country is thought to occur in 115% of patients over 65 years of age. This is directly caused by caloric and dietary deficiencies, reduced physical activity, and associated diseases. One of the major causes of nutrition deficiencies in the country is the poor financial situation of older people and (especially the elderly) a significant distance from the nearest food store, excessive self-sufficiency in basic body fat.
Nutrition for the elderly Useful tips
The correct diagnosis of malnutrition in the elderly should involve immediate pharmacological and nutritional treatment planning. However, in people over 65 years of age, treatment should be undertaken when the BMI of the patient is < 24 or if the patient has lost more than 5% of their body weight within 16 months. Reducing malnutritional problems and dietary problems in the geriatric group of ready-to-eat people will increase the severity of their diet and exercise.