NUTRITION FOR THE

ELDERLY
 Things taking place
1. Impairment of strength and motion;
general dulling of the senses, particularly of
taste and smell which contributes to the loss
of appetite.
2. Loss of natural teeth, making them difficult
to chew food properly which could lead to
inadequate food intake
3. Digestion in there later years is affected.
This is the reduction of tonus in the
musculature of the stomach and small
intestine that leads to less motility where
constipation is most likely to occur. There is
a lower absorption of calcium and iron
resulting in bone fragility and low
hemoglobin levels among the aged.
 NUTRITIONAL
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
ELDERLY
1. Energy (calories) – demand for calories is
decreased because of reduced food
metabolism rate and reduced physical
activities.
2. Protein – should be maintained for the
prevention of tissue wasting and
susceptibility to infection
Minerals (calcium) – should be maintained
to prevent the occurrence of some
conditions like osteoporosis especially
among women.
4. Iron – for men the same as in younger
years.
- for women, it should be increased
5. Vitamins – B complex is needed to
counteract the loss of appetite
5. Water and Fiber – stimulates peristalsis,
this aids in preventing constipation
REASONS FOR MAINTAING
NUTRITIONAL ALLOWANCES
DURING ELDERLY PERIOD
1. To conserve the health of the elderly
2. To prevent the occurrence of chronic
degenerative diseases such as arthritis,
rheumatism, gout, and diabetes.
 EFFECTS OF GOOD
NUTRITION
1. Feeling Better
2. Looking Better
3. Moving and Thinking Better
4. Living Longer and More Productive
Salamat po . . .