Nutrition advice for Tipp's elderly
South Tipperary Enablement Programme for the Older Person (STEP) and the Older Person Nutrition Interest Group (OPNIG) of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institution (INDI) are calling for all carers and older people to be aware of the vital role of good nutrition in the older adults, following International Day of Older Persons, which took place on Friday, 1st of October. Malnutrition increases the risk of falls, infections and hospital stays in older adults and this over 65 age group is the fastest growing cohort in Ireland, having increased by 17.9% since 2016. This figure is expected to further increase to 1.6 million older citizens by 2051 (FSAI, 2021).
Lorna King is the South Tipperary Enablement Programme Clinical Specialist Dietitian for the Older Person, she believes that there are key benefits to incorporating nutrient rich foods in the older persons diet. The STEP team has observed among older persons that nutrition when combined with regular physical activity is vital in successful ageing, both for physical and mental health.
Dr. Isweri Pillay, Consultant Geriatrician at Tipperary University Hospital and a member of the STEP Team said: “What matters to most older people that we care for in hospital, is maintaining their independence, their families and living in their own home. People worry about losing independence and becoming dependent on their families as caregivers or having to leave their home. Between 25-30% of older people that we care for in hospital are at risk of malnutrition before coming to hospital. This risk of malnutrition is linked to frailty and poorer health outcomes and loss of independence. A nutritionally balanced diet is an essential component of self-care at every stage of life but can be life-changing in later years."
As people age, their nutritional requirements change. Energy (calorie) needs may go down, yet protein requirements can increase. The ability of the body to absorb and use micronutrients will change and taste, appetite and social circumstances evolve too.
KEY DIETARY AREAS FOR OLDER PEOPLE
Highlighting the key dietary areas for the older person to promote both physical and mental wellbeing is important. These include:
- Protein Power: Protein is the building block of muscle and helps to keep bones strong.
Older adults should eat protein rich foods spread out at meal and snack times throughout the day. Sources include red meat, chicken and other poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and cheese. More plant-based protein sources include soya bean products, beans and peas, bread, cereals, nuts and seeds and meat alternatives.
- Drink more Fluids: Getting adequate fluid daily is important, even mild dehydration can negatively affect an older person’s mental function, can increase risk of falls and can lead to constipation. Should aim for at least 8 cups of fluid (1.5l) a day.
- Keep an eye on appetite and weight: The older person is at higher risk of developing malnutrition, which can lead to muscle loss. Signs of weight loss include loose rings/clothes/belts, ill-fitting dentures, fatigue and reduced interest in food. In these situations:
- Encourage three small meals and three small snacks each day
o Include high calorie, nourishing foods, for example: full fat milk, hot chocolate made with full fat milk, crackers with butter or cheese, full fat yogurts, rice puddings and custards
o Try fortifying foods: for example, addition of cream into soup or grated cheese on potatoes.
o Monitor weight weekly and discuss with the GP.
- Focus on Vitamins and Minerals: “As we approach the winter period, all older adults should take a daily vitamin D supplement of 15mcg as advised by the Department of Health last year, to ensure optimal bone and muscle health,” says Lorna King Clinical Specialist Dietitian. “It plays a role in immunity and is required for the absorption of calcium, needed for healthy bones and teeth. The ability to absorb and use certain nutrients can change as we age, including Vitamin B12, Folate, Iron, and Calcium.”