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DIET AND NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF ELDERLY
A number of basic process of digestion and absorption of nutrients are impaired by the ageing process. Along with this, chronic drug administration can often lead to nutritional deficiencies in the elderly. Dietary restrictions caused by diabetes and other diseases along with poor dentition may also reduce the patient\'s nutritional status.
The elderly must have a sufficient intake of foods rich in essential nutrients and avoid nutritional depletion. Nutritional needs of the elderly are not age specific and they must meet two major demands:
1. Repair of normal structure.
2. Production of energy for functional needs.
Factors Leading to Inadequate Nutrition
1. Isolation; psychological stress
2. Physical disability - vision; arthritis
3. Disease - coronary artery disease, diabetes, cancer, infection
4. Inadequate nutrition knowledge
5. Socio-economic
6. Unsuitable housing.
Food consumption in the elderly is further reduced (15-25%) due to reduced physical activity, reduced appetite, lack of saliva, reduced taste buds, poor teeth and reduced enzymes leading to poor digestion and further weight loss.
To meet the nutritional needs of the elderly it is essential to give them a balanced diet, rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre.
The elderly should take soft foods that can be easily chewed and eat small meals but more frequently to facilitate digestion.
Foods to be Included
1. Whole grain cereals that are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, wheat, maize, millets.
2. Green leafy vegetables and other vegetables.
3. Whole dais and soybeans.
4. Low-fat milk, curd and other milk products.
5. Sugar and oils for palatability.
Dietary Tips for Elderly
1. Take simple but nutritious diet.
2. Improve the quality of diet by adding liberal amounts of green leafy vegetables, fruits and whole cereals.
3. Take small frequent meals.
4. Take semi-solid food and plenty of fluids.
5. Avoid fried foods.
6. Reduce total fats and refined carbohydrates.
7. Reduce salt intake.
8. Avoid fasting.
9. Maintain good social and psychological environment for normal health.
10. Do regular physical exercise like brisk walking.
11. Avoid inactivity, loneliness and social isolation.
*18/356/5*
GENERAL HEALTH
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