Malnourishment in the Elderly
Nutrition and Grandbars
Shockingly, it is estimated that over 3 million people in the UK are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. Our elderly population is particularly at risk as over 1 million of those affected are over 65. Or, around one in ten people over the age of 65 are malnourished or are at risk of malnutrition. Unsurprisingly the vast majority of the malnourished elderly are living alone or in a care / hospital setting.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is both a cause and a consequence of ill health and is a silent and hidden problem.
- It will affect health and wellbeing, therefore increasing hospital admissions, and can lead to long-term health problems for otherwise healthy and independent older people.
- A sign of malnutrition is not just weight loss but can be other physical symptoms, such as dry skin and hair, brittle nails, or sores around the mouth.
- They can also be psychological, including increased irritability and depression.
- Worsening night vision and joint pain are also signs of a lack of vitamins and minerals.
What, Specifically, do the Elderly Need in Their Diet?
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
- Helps prevent inflammation which can cause Rheumatoid Arthritis, Heart Disease and Cancer.
- Has been found to slow down the progression of Macular Degeneration.
- Reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and keeps the brain alert.
Iron
Produces hemoglobin, prevents anaemia and increases energy.
Calcium
Helps build and maintain healthy bones, also lowers blood pressure.
Vitamin D
Aids the absorption of calcium. May also protect against MS, Type 2 Diabetes, Cancer and Osteoporosis.
Magnesium
Keeps heart and immune system healthy and your bones strong.
Potassium
Aids in cell function, reduces blood pressure and may reduce risk of kidney stones.
Vitamin B12
Maintains nerve function, produces red blood cells and DNA.
The Dangers of Nutritional Drinks and Shakes
In November 2020 Dr Amy Ehrlich MD wrote an article entitled: Think twice about giving seniors nutritional supplement drinks or shakes. They have high sugar content and can cause digestive upset. Lactose intolerance increases with age and most nutritional shakes are made from milk proteins. Nutritional drinks often contain such high amounts of vitamins and minerals that they can cause dangerous interactions with some prescribed medication – for example vitamin K and blood thinners. She concluded: “supplements are not the same as whole foods”.
Grandbars
Grandbars are the only snack supplement designed for the elderly. They are tasty, wholesome nutritional snacks packed with a good amount of the majority of the nutrients mentioned above. They are all made with flaxseed, gluten-free oats, almond butter, walnuts, coconut oil, honey, apricots and prunes. Visit our website and Facebook page to find out more!
Contact Dementia Doulas Ltd
For Dementia home care in Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Tewkesbury, Bishop’s Cleeve and the surrounding areas, get in touch with us today.
