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Effects of Poor Nutrition on the Elderly 

Many age-related diseases and conditions, including diabetes type 2, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and osteoporosis, have been linked to poor nutrition in the elderly. Malnutrition, which often remains untreated, can be avoided if the elderly’s diet is adapted to meet their changing demands in terms of calories, energy, taste, and accessibility. Registered Dietitians are available via Doral Health Connect to ensure that you and your loved ones are getting the nutrients you need while also satisfying your food cravings. 

Bone Fragility 

The elderly may lose muscle and fat if they don’t get enough of certain nutrients. Without proper nourishment, the skeleton weakens and becomes more fragile. Seniors should get plenty of vitamin D and calcium every day to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, which is essential for healthy bone structure. 

Weight Reduction 

Elderly people lose weight because they eat less. Seniors often struggle with an inability to sustain a healthy appetite, which can perpetuate the problem. When an elderly person has been ill or has gone through a time of undereating, their energy levels drop, making it difficult for them to eat properly again. Caregivers can help stimulate an elderly person’s appetite by establishing a regular eating routine that includes tiny quantities of highly nutritious foods. 

Continuing Decline in Mental Capacity 

Cognitive deterioration is another potential outcome of malnutrition. Despite the lack of causal evidence linking malnutrition to diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, numerous studies have shown that maintaining a balanced diet can mitigate the symptoms and progression of these conditions. Antioxidants can mitigate the damage done by free radicals, a leading cause of neuron loss. Pine nuts, cranberry, beans, and cacao are just a few of the antioxidant-rich foods that seniors should eat on a daily basis to keep their brains healthy. 

Decreased Resistance 

The immune system suffers when seniors don’t get enough vitamin and nutrient-rich food. In the aging process, white blood cell production slows down, making the elderly more vulnerable to illness. Zinc, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and other antioxidants can help seniors’ immune systems. Vaccinations are also recommended on a yearly basis for them. 

Diminished Eyesight 

A healthy diet rich in proteins, antioxidants, vitamin A, and lutein can help seniors keep their eyesight in good shape as they age. Not receiving enough of these nutrients can worsen pre-existing eye disorders and speed up the progression of visual loss in the elderly. Cataracts, vision problems, glaucoma, and other types of visual loss are all linked to malnutrition. To avoid these side effects, seniors should eat more dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, and greens. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like tuna and salmon are good for your eyes. 

Constipation 

It is a common result of a poor diet, especially among the elderly. The recommended treatment for this problem is to increase your fiber intake and increase your water intake to eight glasses daily. Working out can help improve digestion. 

We are now at the threshold of a more fulfilling and fruitful life. HouseCalls Home Care, situated at 1950 Fulton Street, NY 11233, is here to help if you or a loved one requires assistance with home health care services, including assistance with vocational rehabilitation. If you need specialized medical attention, please contact +1-718- 9200-9200 to make an appointment or send an email to info@doralhw.org. For further information, please log onto https://housecallshc.org/.

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