You may have observed residents in your facility losing weight when they lose their appetite.
When one of your residents is eating less than usual and losing weight, they are at risk of developing nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition
A resident may experience loss of appetite due to:
Loss of taste and smell as they age
Decreased saliva production leading to difficulty chewing and swallowing
Slower gastric emptying which means food remains in stomach for longer
Dental problems which may cause issues with chewing and swallowing
Side effects from medications [1]
How can you encourage a resident to eat if their appetite is low? Read more »
