Is Eating Alone Creating Big Problems for Your Senior?

Your senior may run into big difficulties if she’s eating the majority of her meals completely alone. This is something you and she might not think about until she’s actually experiencing the effects of having been alone for a while. These are just a few of the ways that solitary eating can create issues for your senior and some ideas for resolving the situation. 

Malnutrition Is a Huge Concern

When your senior doesn’t have the nutrients she needs, her body has a more difficult time keeping her immune system functioning. That can lead to increased health issues and even to infections. Malnutrition can also lead to increased mental health issues, including depression. Determining why your elderly family member isn’t eating as well as she should be is key to solving that problem. 

Unintended Weight Loss Can Cause Issues 

Unexpected weight loss can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from malnutrition to problems with health. If your elderly family member is suddenly losing weight and is not trying to do so, it’s important to get to the bottom of what’s happening. Talk to your senior’s doctor about possible underlying health issues so that you can rule those out. 

Eating Alone Can Be Scary 

You might not realize this, but eating alone can be kind of scary as your senior gets older. Whether she has health issues that make chewing and swallowing more difficult or she simply doesn’t feel comfortable with eating by herself, these concerns can make your senior’s situation a lot different than it used to be. Some people may even resist eating, even when hungry, because of fears related to eating alone. 

It Can Also Be Lonely 

It also takes a lot more effort than it might have in the past for your senior to cook an entire meal. This may cause her to start relying on pre-packaged meals more often or to start eating take out meals a lot more often. There are other, healthier solutions that you and she can put in place, but it requires that you understand where her issues are so that you can work on the actual problem for her. 

One of the solutions that you and your senior might consider could be bringing in a caregiver on a regular basis. This is especially important if your elderly family member needs more help than you’re able to provide for her on your own. 

 

If you or an aging loved-one is considering a Caregiver in Natomas, CA please contact the caring staff at Aging Assistant today. (916) 897-4752