Depression & Nutrition in the Elderly

Depression and malnutrition often go hand in hand with elderly people for a variety of reasons. According to Mayo Clinic, good nutrition is critical for good health in seniors. The elderly are far more likely to suffer from malnutrition than the younger population. Seniors become very susceptible to health problems that are often caused by poor eating habits. Due to many new medical advances people are living longer and this has intensified the problem of depression and malnutrition for the elderly.

Depression Causes

• Some of the reasons for elderly depression can be as simple as living alone and lack of contact with other people. There can often be a sense of lack of purpose in life after kids are grown, retirement from a job or a feeling of isolation from life. Many medications can also be responsible for depression. People often develop many more fears as they head into their senior years, which leads to anxiety. The death of a spouse, friend or pet can be instrumental in creating depressed feelings.

Depression Symptoms

• Sometimes the symptoms for depression are not always easily recognized. Sometimes you can feel sad in general, stop going out to usual places you frequent or you might quit doing favorite things you once enjoyed. There could be a sudden weight loss and a serious loss of appetite. Poor sleeping habits are often a possible symptom. You may start to drink more alcohol to block out uncomfortable feelings. Interestingly enough many seniors don't claim to feel sad and the depression can manifest with a lack of energy or physical complaints.

Solutions for Depression

• If you are feeling alone and out of sorts, it is time to get out and be more social. Go places that feel comfortable with people you know and like. Churches and senior centers can be very nurturing when you are feeling depressed. Get a cat or dog from the animal shelter, as this give you a reason to get up in the morning. Try to do some exercise, even a short walk can be very mood uplifting. Take some time each day to be grateful for all that you do have. If you so desire, talk with a counselor, church minister or a good friend to share your feelings

Malnutrition Causes

• The reasons for malnutrition in the elderly are quite different than those of younger people. Many seniors people have gotten into bad eating habits and reach for junk food when hungry. Some of the reasons go a little deeper, as is stated on the Mayo Clinic website. Chronic illness can decrease the appetite, lack of interest in cooking nutritious meals and trouble chewing and swallowing can be a problem. Medications can alter the appetite and sometimes cause other side effects. Depression, reduced social contact, limited funds and restricted diets are some of the other reasons.

Diet and Cooking Ideas

• Make eating as simple as possible. Whether you do the shopping or someone else does, select easy to fix and eat foods. There are many healthy selections in the produce department such as packaged salads, cut up vegetables and fruit. Purchase boxed brown rice, couscous and other grains that can prepared easily. If you enjoy cooking, spruce up your menu with spices and herbs. Purchase ready to eat foods like low fat cottage cheese and yogurt which are rich in calcium and protein. Canned tuna, sardines and salmon are nutritious and provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Cook big pot of vegetable soup with beans, which can last for several meals. Stay hydrated by drinking several glasses of water a day.