How to Fix Loss of Appetite Due to Anxiety in Independent Seniors
Knowing how to fix loss of appetite due to anxiety in seniors can be key to improving their quality of life. This is possible by establishing a calm and predictable eating routine, choosing small, nutrient-dense, easy-to-eat foods, addressing the anxiety itself with gentle coping strategies, and getting medical support to rule out and treat contributing factors.
The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) reports that as many as 10-20% of the older population has anxiety. However, it's often undiagnosed, so the numbers may be even higher.
Left untreated, anxiety can wreak havoc on your life. For example, seniors in Costa Mesa, CA, may have once enjoyed the local area's culinary offerings, but now, they can't stand the sight of food.
This means that knowing how to fix loss of appetite due to anxiety is crucial. Not only can it restore your love of food, but it can also ensure that both your physical and mental health are in good shape.
Should I Force Myself to Eat if I Have No Appetite?
Loss of appetite is common in seniors, especially if they have anxiety. While you shouldn't force yourself to eat large meals, it's still very important to nourish your body regularly.
If you skip meals, this can lead to:
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Slower healing
Instead, try to eat smaller frequent meals or snacks throughout the day. If possible, eat nutrient-dense foods, like:
- Soups
- Smoothies
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- Soft fruits
How to Restore Appetite in the Elderly?
Anxiety and appetite are closely linked, so you have to address both the physical and emotional aspects of things. Here are the ways to restore your appetite so you experience healthy aging in retirement.
Establish a Calm and Predictable Eating Routine
As you may already know, anxiety puts your body in a constant "fight or flight" state, and this suppresses your body's hunger signals. So a good way to combat this state is to create a calm and predictable eating routine, as this can retrain your body to expect and accept food.
Try to eat your meals at the same times each day, even if the portions are small. And a peaceful environment can make a big difference, such as dining in senior communities.
Choose Small, Nutrient-Dense, Easy-to-Eat Foods
As we've said earlier, it's better to eat small meals and snacks rather than three large meals a day. But you still want to get enough energy and nutrition, so go for quality rather than quantity.
For senior nutrition support, going with the examples we listed earlier can bring you more success. It can also reduce the pressure and stress associated with mealtimes.
Address the Anxiety Itself With Gentle Coping Strategies
Focusing on emotional wellness for seniors can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. And as a result, this can help with your appetite.
There are grounding techniques you can use when anxiety rises, and you can also try:
- Guided relaxation exercises
- Short walks
- Stretching
You can also consider counseling or therapy. Your doctor may then recommend medication to address your anxiety.
Whatever you choose, once the symptoms decrease, your body will naturally shift out of survival mode. This will allow hunger signals to return, and meals will be more comfortable and appealing again.
Get Medical Support to Rule Out and Treat Contributing Factors
Loss of appetite in older adults isn't always caused by anxiety alone. The following can all make eating difficult or uncomfortable:
- Medications
- Dental issues
- Digestive problems
- Depression
- Chronic illness
Seeing your doctor regularly is always a good idea, so keep up with that. They can review your medications, check for underlying conditions, and suggest treatments or adjustments that may improve your appetite. Plus, getting proper medical support ensures that serious issues aren't overlooked.
You can also see a dietitian, as they can recommend supplements or appetite-supporting strategies that are tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Anxiety Get Worse as You Get Older?
No, anxiety doesn't automatically get worse as you get older. However, it's common to experience this since there are life changes and health-related factors. They include:
- Retirement
- Loss of independence
- Chronic medical conditions
- Memory changes
- Loss of loved ones
Older adults may also be worried about finances, mobility, or becoming a burden on family members. Plus, some medications and medical conditions can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms.
The good news is that anxiety in seniors is very treatable. With the proper support, therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases, medication, they can significantly reduce anxiety.
What Helps the Elderly With Severe Anxiety?
The best way to help the elderly with severe anxiety is to use a combination of medical, emotional, and lifestyle support. This can look like:
- Therapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT)
- Medication
- Relaxation techniques (such as deep breathing or meditation)
- Social connection
- Family involvement
What Is the 3-3-3 Rule of Anxiety?
The 3-3-3 rule of anxiety is a simple grounding technique that can help you calm anxiety in the moment. It's great for seniors since it's easy to remember and you can do it anywhere.
When you feel the anxiety rise, first look around and name three things you can see. Then, listen and identify three sounds you can hear. Finally, move three parts of your body, such as your hands, shoulders, or feet.
The goal is to redirect your mind away from anxious thoughts and back into the present moment.
Know How to Fix Loss of Appetite Due to Anxiety
It can be difficult to have mental health issues, especially as an older adult. But if you learn how to fix loss of appetite due to anxiety, then you'll unlock ways to be healthier, stronger, and happier.
Remember that it's natural to have anxiety, especially as you experience challenging life changes. So don't be too hard on yourself, and learn to cope in wholesome ways.
At Coastal Heights, we have signature programs that give our residents a unique lifestyle, such as Vibrant Life®, which allows them to maintain their independence. Get in touch with us today to hear more about senior living in Costa Mesa, CA.