by T.Yeap

Created on: August 12, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

Nutrition is important for everyone's health but it's critical for seniors as they are more succeptible for medical illness and health related problem associated with malnutrition. Malnutrition is very common among the senior's community and the reason for that is much more complicated than just the lack of food intake and unhealthy food choices. There's more underlying causes for malnutrition and that include: 1) Chronic Disease, 2) Multiple Medications, 3) Dental Health, 4) Decreasing in Swallowing Ability, 5) Diminishing Taste and Smell, 6) Food Insecurity.

SMALL FREQUENT MEALS
Seniors frequently stated that they just don't have much of an appetite to eat a large meal at once. Part of it may due to slower digestion and makes them feel full faster. Another reason might be the diminishing taste and smell from sensory loss or side effects from medication, which makes the food less favorful to the seniors. Providing smaller, frequent meals at about 3-4 hours interval may help to maximize their food intake and absorbing as much nutrient as possbile. Try to avoid large amount of fluids before and during meals as it will reduce the amount tolerated in their stomach.

BONING UP ON CALCIUM
Osteoporosis is a very common health issue among seniors but mostly with women. According to Medline Plus, as many as half the women and a quarter of men over 50's will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Calcium and Vitamin D is the main component needed for bone building and maintenance. The recommended daily intake of Calcium for older adults are 1500mg/day. Most common food sources are: Dairy product. You can also visit this website (International Osteoporosis Foundation) for a comprehensive list of calcium rich foods. Vitamin D works with body to absorb calcium for proper bone health. Therefore, if one suffers from Vitamin D sufficiency, the
absorption of calcium will not take place, which leads to weaker and more poros bones. Common sources of Vitamin D is sun exposure, diets and supplements. The recommended amount for seniors is between 400-600 International Units (IU). Dietary sources includes egg yolks, saltwater fish and fortified cereals.

HYDRATION
As we age, it's more difficult for the body to signal thirst response, therefore senior citizens doesn't reallized that they needed fluids until it's too late. Dehydration not only causes by inadequate fluids intake but also diarrhea, sweating, the usage of diuretic pills, caffeine intake, and fever. Signs to look for is fatigue,

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