Appetite declines with age as a result of physiological changes in the body and lifestyle, such as decreased exercise levels, less sensitive taste buds, and a slower metabolism. Long-term lack of appetite, known medically as anorexia, is not a natural aspect of aging. It might be an indication of underlying issues that require medical treatment. If you are caring for an older person who is losing their appetite, you may be wondering what causes loss of appetite. In this article, we will discuss the numerous issues that may result in loss of appetite in your loved ones, as well as a few ideas to help them rediscover the joy of eating.
Oral Conditions
You may have observed that when you are thirsty, food tastes less appealing. As a result, eating can become a chore, and prolonged dry mouth may result in long-term loss of appetite. Here are some typical oral conditions that have a direct impact on one’s ability to consume and enjoy food:
- Difficulties with swallowing
- Difficulty chewing
- Dry mouth
- Reduction in taste
Side Effect of Medications
A loss of appetite is a common side effect of many medications. Medications that can often cause someone to lose their appetite include sedatives, some antibiotics, chemotherapy, immunotherapy. Those who have undergone major surgery under anesthesia drugs may also experience a loss of appetite.
Mental Conditions
You may have observed family members or friends losing their appetite and refusing to eat during stressful events such as a time of bereavement. Mental health concerns such as anxiety disorder, sorrow, or sadness tend to induce decreased appetite when they become significant and are identified as a mental condition. Stress, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks can also cause a loss of appetite.
Infections
Bacterial and viral illnesses can both cause a loss of appetite. Scientists believe that a lack of desire to eat is part of the body’s systemic reaction to illness, maybe to conserve energy for the sake of healing. Anorexia can be caused by infection everywhere in the body, not just the mouth or tongue. Other frequent diseases that cause appetite loss include skin infections, meningitis, colitis, gastroenteritis, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, and even the flu.
Treatment
Anorexia therapy focuses on treating the underlying problem. For example, if food tastes less appealing to you as a result of a bacterial illness, a brief course of antibiotics is all that is required to clear out the infection. You may notice that your appetite increases and returns to normal a few days following the infection. Parenteral nutrition may be required for individuals suffering from chronic illnesses or ailments that take a long time to treat in order to ensure adequate nourishment is delivered until the primary issue is treated.
Come to Discovery Village At Castle Hills
When you stay at our senior living community, you can rest assured that you are receiving the best services available. With our Sensations Dining program, you can eat in our dining room, which offers friendly waitstaff and an exceptional chef. We offer a variety of tasty, nutrient-dense, and healthy meals designed to meet every dietary requirement.
