Causes of malnutrition in the elderly

Malnutrition not only appears in infants and young children but also accounts for a high rate in the elderly. This condition leads to many health consequences for the patient and other social problems. Therefore, recognizing the causes of malnutrition in the elderly and finding ways to overcome them is extremely necessary.

Malnutrition in the elderly is understood as an imbalance between the daily nutritional intake and the body's necessary nutritional needs. This condition makes the body weak, reduces resistance and causes many other dangerous diseases such as infectious diseases, chronic diseases, ... According to statistics, the number of elderly people in the world is increasing day by day. increase leading to malnutrition. This subject is very concerned about health by family and society, but this condition is still very difficult to control.
As a result of this disease increases morbidity and mortality significantly. This situation can become a burden on society by causing great economic harm. Therefore, the prevention of malnutrition in the elderly is very important.
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According to experts, to detect signs of malnutrition in the elderly is very difficult. Because it often has no specific signs. However, if the disease can be detected early, it will help to treat the disease more smoothly and prevent complications later. Here are the steps to help detect the signs of malnutrition in the elderly:
Observing the eating habits of the elderly: Malnutrition often causes the elderly to lose their appetite, anorexia... This symptom lasts, the family needs the elderly to see a doctor for a health check. Regularly monitor weight: Weight accurately reflects the health status of the elderly. Unusual weight loss or gain is a sign of a medical condition. At the same time, relatives can observe the face (gaunt) as well as the clothes (wider) of the elderly to judge malnutrition. Unusual signs in the body such as: bruises, bleeding gums, toothache, ... Finally, some drugs can be the cause of elderly people's loss of appetite, loss of appetite,. At the same time, it causes malnutrition and reduces nutrient absorption.

The following are some of the causes of malnutrition in the elderly:
Changes in the physiology of aging: These changes include a decline in memory, taste and smell leading to anorexia, loss of appetite of the patient. The decline in oral health makes it difficult for patients to chew, chew and swallow. Since then, eating has been difficult. Chronic diseases: Elderly people are very susceptible to chronic diseases because their resistance is severely reduced. Patients are required to follow strict diets that lead to malnutrition. At the same time, some drugs to treat diseases also affect the taste and quality of the patient's meals. Elderly people experience great psychological fluctuations leading to loneliness and depression. Poor eating habits partly affect malnutrition in the elderly. The senses are impaired such as: hearing, sight, feeling... making it difficult for the elderly to find and process food. This is also the cause of malnutrition in the elderly. In addition, aging causes a decline in physical functioning. This is followed by a gradual decline in lean body mass.

When there is an elderly person in the family who is malnourished, relatives take the sick person to see a doctor for proper treatment. After the examination and diagnosis, the doctor will make a treatment plan. Specialist doctors can prescribe medication or recommend a suitable diet.
At the same time, it is very important to treat malnutrition in the elderly at home. Families need special care for the elderly such as: improving diet, living... Besides, optimism also plays an important role in the treatment of malnutrition. Family members need to create a happy and comfortable atmosphere for the elderly to have a happy life.
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To prevent malnutrition in the elderly, first of all, the elderly need to pay attention to their diet and moderate lifestyle.

Increase eating white meat instead of red meat. White meat includes fish and chicken. At the same time, limit the intake of animal fat. This is a food source that can cause diseases of blood fat, heart disease, increase the risk of stroke, heart attack. Therefore, experts advise the elderly to consume healthy vegetable oils such as: sunflower oil, soybean oil, nuts, fats from salmon, herring, ..
Green vegetables and fruits are indispensable foods in a healthy diet. Vegetables and fruits are a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber that are very beneficial for health. Besides, the elderly should regularly replenish water for the body to avoid dehydration. However, there are many cases where the diet cannot meet the nutritional needs. Therefore, the elderly can drink fortified milk. Experts recommend drinking 2 glasses of milk a day to ensure nutrition and drink specialized milk for the elderly.

Elderly people should have a gentle and regular exercise regime to improve blood circulation, help increase endurance, body flexibility and fight disease. If your family can afford it, you may want to consider hiring a nutritionist or health care worker to choose foods for the elderly. From there, the elderly in the family will ensure nutrition and prevent malnutrition.
Malnutrition can greatly affect the health of the elderly. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to find out the reasons to change the lifestyle as well as maintain the nutritional pyramid for the elderly.
Vinmec International General Hospital is the address for examination, treatment and prevention of diseases. When performing the examination process at Vinmec, customers will be welcomed and used modern facilities and equipment along with perfect medical services under the guidance and advice of experts. Good doctors, well-trained both at home and abroad.