Studies have shown that seniors who live alone are more likely to suffer from malnutrition. Why is that? Several factors can play into it. If you have a parent who lives alone, these are the situations to watch for and correct.

Cooking for One is Hard

After decades of cooking for a family, switching to cooking meals for one can be challenging. Portioning the right amounts may challenge your parent. There can also be a lack of interest in cooking for one. It’s easier to eat single frozen meals or quick snacks that don’t require preparation.

You may be able to stop by and cook a week’s worth of meals. That’s a good start, but it requires your parent to know how to reheat the dish. You have to decide if your parent is able to follow the directions

Chronic Conditions May Impact the Ability to Prepare Meals

Arthritis can make cooking really hard to manage. Chopping vegetables and herbs, lifting a heavy pot or casserole dish, or draining hot water from pasta may be too much. As a result, your parent also finds it easier or safer to stop cooking.

Again, it may help if you or other family caregivers stop by and prepare meals for your parent. That still won’t solve the issue of your parent having to eat meals alone.

Mobility May Prevent Trips to the Store

If your parent no longer drives, getting to the store is impossible. Grocery delivery services are not available in all cities and towns. Your parent may find services like Blue Apron to be too expensive, plus most plans only cover a few days a week. If there’s no chance at getting out to the store, it’s likely a senior is dealing with an empty fridge and cupboards.

Stop by and drive your mom or dad to the store each week if possible. If you live too far away, you need to arrange to have a caregiver stop by and make sure groceries are stocked.

Depression or Medication Side Effects Set In

Depression and the side effects of many medications can impact a seniors appetite. Seniors who live alone have a high risk of being depressed and lonely. If the appetite is impacted, eating a meal may be unappealing.

Talk to your mom or dad’s doctor about the side effects. A different medicine may work effectively without the same side effects.

Eating Alone Isn’t Enjoyable

How often is your parent sitting down to have a meal alone? Eating when you’re completely alone is not enjoyable. Seniors need companionship. If your parent is eating alone, it’s time to bring in companionship services.

Home care agencies can have a caregiver stop by and cook for your parent and stay for that meal. Call a home care agency to arrange this vital service.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1873959816000053

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