As body composition changes with age, so do nutritional requirements. There can be changes in ability to metabolise nutrients and individual needs should  be assessed and if necessary, nutritional habits adjusted to compensate for these changes.

For some people there may be times when additional nutritional support is required e.g. when unwell, or during chronic illness which may affect requirements long term.  Strategies may need to be developed in order to maintain nutritional adequacy.

People who are elderly can be at greater risk of unintentional weight loss over time.  Weight loss in ageing is not necessarily a normal part of ageing and eating well and maintaining weight and muscle is the best way to keep the body strong, maintain quality of life, and withstand illness.
 
Ageing affects individuals in many ways & nutritional adequacy can be compromised by many factors including:

• Physiological changes (reduced appetite, & thirst).
• Taste changes (likes and dislikes).
• Eating issues (dry mouth, chewing or swallowing difficulties).
• Decreased physical activity & ability to carry out daily tasks.
• Chronic illness.
• Effects of medication (taste, appetite and absorption of nutrients).
• Changes in social and personal interactions.
• Changes in dietary habits, motivation or loneliness.

Weight is not always a good indicator of nutritional adequacy, some individuals may be overweight yet still at risk of nutritional deficiency, which may lead to loss of function or frailty if not addressed.

Clues for individuals or carers to watch out for include loss of strength, thinning of arms or legs, rings, waistbands or belts fitting loosely, or even dentures or shoes becoming looser. With advancing years these changes need to be assessed and monitored.
 
Dietary requirements for many nutrients change with advancing age, and a nutritionist will be able to assist in identifying possible dietary inadequacy, and how current habits may be affecting diet.
 
The great news is that we are living longer lives, and good nutritional habits can help make sure that this longer life is as healthy as possible. 

Tracy can help you understand the physiological and metabolic changes that occur with age, and assist you to establish & maintain nutritional and lifestyle habits to support health.

The old saying that prevention is better than cure has never been more accurate as we discover more and more about the relationship between nutrition and health outcomes, and it's never too late to improve your nutritional practices.

Contact reception to make an appointment with Tracy to discuss any concerns you may have with nutritional changes during ageing.