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Eating Disorders in the Elderly Population

April 13, 2023 | By Louise Savoie

Proper nutrition is an integral part of a person’s health. And without proper nourishment, arises complications that lead to more serious health problems in seniors.

A lack of appetite due to problems and challenges is preventable, but it is different when a person has an eating disorder. And as providers of home care assistance in California, we find this very alarming.

There are three categories of eating disorders: those that go untreated for many years, those that resurface after previous treatment, and those that develop later in life. These disorders can have serious effects on individuals, and seeking professional help is important for recovery.

What are the common eating disorders in seniors?

• Bulimia Nervosa
  This behavior characterizes eating large amounts of food followed by purging extremely, like using laxatives or triggering a gag reflex.
• Binge Eating
  This is the compulsion to eat large amounts of food at a quick pace. Excessive eating behavior can be apparent, especially when the person starts to gain weight or become obese.
• Anorexia Nervosa
  People with this condition have an extreme desire to look and remain thin. They do this through starvation and weight loss.
• Anorexia of Aging
  Unlike Anorexia Nervosa, anorexia of aging is caused by multiple factors, including diseases, socioeconomic circumstances, and psychological factors. Changes brought about by aging, like losing the sense of smell and taste, can also be a factor, even with extensive meal planning & preparation.
  

Providers of home care services in San Leandro, California, must be vigilant in looking out for symptoms of these disorders. Give Thrive Home Care a chance to help your elderly loved ones find solutions to their health problems.

Should you need caregivers to help, contact us!