Preventing Malnutrition and Dehydration in Later Life

The food and drink we consume play a crucial role in our overall health, influencing our weight, mood, energy, and concentration. Proper nutrition and hydration are key to maintaining physical and mental well-being. However, as we age, it can become more difficult to ensure we're getting enough of both. In the UK, around 1 in 10 older adults are malnourished, and 25% experience mild dehydration.

To raise awareness about the importance of good nutrition and hydration, Nutrition and Hydration Week takes place from March 14th to 20th. The initiative aims to educate people in health and social care about the critical role of food and drink in supporting long-term health.

What Are the Risks of Malnutrition?

Malnutrition can be serious at any age, but it becomes more common as we get older. The risk isn't dependent on body size or weight—an individual can be malnourished regardless of their appearance. Some common signs of malnutrition include:

• Unexplained weight loss or low body weight
• Feeling unusually tired or lethargic
• A reduced appetite
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

How to Prevent and Address Malnutrition

If you’re caring for someone and are concerned, they might not be getting enough nutrients, here are some practical tips to ensure they maintain a healthy diet:

• Encourage small, frequent meals: Offering smaller meals every 2–3 hours can make it easier to consume enough calories and nutrients.
• Introduce variety: Find out what foods they enjoy and mix up their meals to prevent repetition. A range of flavours can make meals more exciting and appetizing.
• Serve smaller portions: Smaller portions can prevent the feeling of being overwhelmed by large meals, and they can always request more if still hungry.
• Add extra calories: Fortify foods with full-fat cream or offer calorie-rich drinks, like milky beverages, between meals.
• Ensure comfort: Make sure the person is seated comfortably, and they have the right utensils to eat. If they need help, offer assistance with feeding.
• Seek professional advice: If you’re concerned about their nutritional intake, consult a healthcare provider for additional support.

What Are the Signs of Dehydration?

Our bodies are made up of around 60% water, and staying hydrated is essential for normal bodily functions like regulating the heart, brain, and muscles. Dehydration can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, which are particularly dangerous for older adults.

Older individuals may not always recognize when they’re thirsty or might struggle to express their need for fluids, making it even more important to monitor their hydration. Common symptoms of dehydration include:

• Thirst
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth, lips, or skin
• Dark or strong-smelling urine

These signs can usually be corrected by increasing fluid intake. However, if dehydration is left untreated, it can lead to more severe symptoms, including:

• Confusion
• Low blood pressure
• Weak pulse
• Rapid heartbeat
• Drowsiness or decreased consciousness

Preventing Dehydration in Later Life.

Encouraging an older person to drink can be challenging, especially if they don't feel thirsty or are concerned about frequent bathroom trips. Here are a few strategies that may help:

• Offer a variety of beverages: Some people find plain water unappealing, so adding juice or fresh fruit slices to water can make it more enjoyable.
• Drink little and often: Just as with meals, offering small amounts of fluid regularly throughout the day is more effective than large amounts at once.
• Limit caffeine: Since caffeine can contribute to dehydration, try to balance caffeinated drinks with water to counteract its effects.

By taking a proactive approach to nutrition and hydration, we can help older individuals maintain their health, energy, and quality of life.

Click here to download a guide on how to discuss preventing dehydration and malnutrition in later life with the people you love.