A nutrition plan for grandma
Dear Donovan,
My grandmother will be celebrating her 90th birthday when November comes around. She has always had a healthy appetite but as of a year ago, this has not been the case. These days she barely eats a nutritious meal and it shows in her frail appearance. Her claim is that she doesn’t have an appetite. I would love to see her eat more, but what? Since she doesn’t eat much I would love to see that what she does eat provides the best nutrition for her well-being. She currently takes daily diabetes and high blood pressure medication. Also, her doctor is of the belief that her health is fine. She struggles to take her medication and wishes that she could discontinue taking them. Can you please advise? I would love to have my grandmother around for many more years to come.
The reduction of appetite in elderly people, medical conditions aside, is usually due to a decrease in physical activity as well as a slowing down of the metabolic rate. Poor appetite can lead to a number of issues for the elderly. It is quite possible, for example, that because of the low intake of food, they could become malnourished.
You say that the doctor has said that your grandmother’s health is fine, so you can rule out other medical issues that could cause the loss of appetite.
I am very happy that your grandmother has reached age 90. At this stage it is very important that her diet is nutritious and healthy, supplying all her needs. Is she still able to move around on her own? And what is she fed on a regular basis? I’d have loved to know.
At this stage it might be better to give her more liquid-based meals such as soups, juices, shakes and porridges instead of solid meals. It is also easier to drink than to eat. These liquid foods could also be adjusted thick or thin in order to control the caloric density. In addition, allowing her to eat with the family might also make her eat more.
She can have smaller meals more frequently. Ensure that she is eating on time so that she does not have extra gas in her digestive system. It is also important to make sure that she is not feeling anxious or depressed.
She should be kept busy with as many activities as she can manage. This will definitely help to increase her self-worth. Activities like walking could definitely increase her appetite and increase bonding between her and her caregiver.
I must note that it is quite possible that the medication that she is on is affecting her appetite. So, too, could her diabetes. Get a nutritionist to work out a diet plan for her. It is very important that her sugar levels are neither too high nor too low. If her diet gets better, her doctor may reduce her diabetes medication. Overall, a proper balance of her medication, diet and care is very important going forward.
Good luck!
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Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com .
