special subjects
Involuntary Weight Loss
Essentials for Older People: Involuntary Weight Loss
Incidence of involuntary weight loss increases with aging, often reaching 50% among nursing home residents. Older people are more likely to have involuntary weight loss because disorders that cause weight loss are more common among older people. There are also normal age-related changes that contribute to weight loss. Typically, many factors are involved. Normal age-related changes that can contribute to weight loss include the following: Decreased sensitivity to certain appetite-stimulating mediators and increased sensitivity to certain inhibitory mediators A decreased rate of gastric-emptying (prolonging the feeling of fullness) Decreased sensitivities of taste and smell Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) In addition, social isolation is common in older people, which tends to decrease food intake. Depression and dementia are very common contributing factors, particularly among nursing home residents. Dental problems (for example, periodontitis) become more common with aging and can compromise nutrient intake and digestion. It is often difficult to sort out the exact contribution of specific factors. Older people may benefit from nutritional supplements to correct vitamin deficiencies (for example, of Vitamin D Deficiency and 