As parents age, their resolve to keep from worrying their children will likely remain unchanged. As a result, they may not be forthcoming with sharing details about any issues they’re experiencing with eating properly and meeting nutritional needs. And for those who live at a distance, it can be even more challenging to be fully aware of dietary changes. The following quick assessment can help family members determine if nutritional needs might need to be addressed:

• Has the senior complained of loss of appetite, digestive problems, or chewing or swallowing difficulties? Has there been decreased food intake over the past 3 months due to these complaints?
• Has the senior experienced weight loss during the last 3 months? Weight loss, particularly in those who are not active, can be an indication that the person is not eating properly.
• Does the senior have mobility issues? Being bed bound or unable to go outside can cause nutritional challenges like inability to buy groceries or prepare meals.
• Has the senior suffered psychological stress or acute disease in the past 3 months?
• What is the senior’s body mass index (BMI)? A BMI of 18.5 or less may be a sign that the person is not eating enough, while a BMI of 30 or more can indicate obesity.

If any of these indicators point to an area of concern for your senior loved one, the first course of action is to check in with his or her doctor. Visiting Angels of Sunnyvale and Fremont, California, can help in a variety of ways as well, with home care services provided by our experienced, compassionate and dedicated caregivers, who receive ongoing training in senior care and are fully screened, bonded and insured. Fill out our simple online contact form or call us at 408-735-0977 to enhance the quality of life for your elderly loved one.