Why Do Seniors Lose Weight?

Weight loss in seniors is a common and potentially serious health concern. As people age, their metabolism slows, and their activity levels decrease, leading to an overall decrease in muscle mass and an increase in fat. Additionally, seniors may experience changes in their appetite, leading to poor nutrition and further weight loss. Seniors may also experience changes in their hormones and medications, which can lead to further weight loss. Ultimately, seniors should be aware of the potential causes of weight loss and should speak to their healthcare provider if they notice unexplained or significant weight loss.

What Causes Weight Loss as You Age?

As we get older, it is common to experience unintentional weight loss. This can be caused by various factors, such as a loss of appetite due to aging, as well as hormonal and metabolic changes. These changes can cause us to lose muscle mass and fat, leading to weight loss.

Additionally, some medications can also cause unintentional weight loss. Diseases like cancer, diabetes, and thyroid problems are also known to cause weight loss in people who age. Lastly, psychological factors such as depression and anxiety can lead to an individual losing their appetite or not having the energy to prepare proper meals. All these causes of unintentional weight loss can lead to an individual losing needed nutrients which could potentially lead to other health complications if not monitored properly.

Common Causes of Weight Loss in Seniors

Weight loss in seniors is a common cause of concern for many families. Unintentional weight loss can lead to serious health complications, and it is important for seniors to maintain a healthy weight as they age. Common causes of weight loss in seniors are dementia, which affects the ability to remember to eat, and reduced mobility, which makes it difficult to obtain food or prepare meals. Body weight declines naturally with age, beginning around the age of 60, so weight loss that goes beyond this natural decline should be taken seriously.

Seniors are also vulnerable to poor nutrition if they have difficulty reaching grocery stores or preparing meals. It is important that family members remain aware of these possibilities and take steps to ensure their senior loved ones are properly nourished and maintain healthy body weight.

Unintentional Weight Loss in Older Adults

Unintentional weight loss in older adults is a serious health concern as it can indicate underlying medical issues. Weight loss in seniors over the age of 65 is especially concerning, as sudden weight loss can result in decreased body mass and muscle mass. Weight loss in older adults can be caused by anything from dietary changes to dementia or more serious illnesses like cancer. It is important that seniors are monitored for any unintentional weight loss and to consult their doctor if they experience any sudden or alarming changes. Early recognition of a potential problem can help prevent further complications and improve the overall quality of life for senior citizens.

Seeking Help for Unintentional Weight Loss

It is important to seek help for unintentional weight loss as soon as possible in order to determine the underlying medical cause. A doctor should be consulted if there has been any significant reduction in body weight within a short period of time or if body weight within your usual range has been consistently dropping. The doctor will assess the individual’s health and create a personalized plan of action based on their current status and lifestyle. The doctor may also suggest laboratory tests or further investigations to determine the cause of the weight loss. Seeking professional help for unintentional weight loss is important in order to ensure that it does not lead to other health complications down the road.

Find Effective Senior Care at Gardens Care

There are several reasons why seniors can lose weight over time. To avoid some of the potential causes, as well as the problems that come with excessive weight loss, It may be time to look for senior care options. At Gardens Care, we provide a range of care options in multiple facilities, making it easy to find the best fit for your needs. To learn more, call us at 303-566-1085 to discuss how we offer senior care and support.