Treatment for loss of appetite in elderly people

A smaller appetite may follow an infection, low mood, mouth or swallowing problems, constipation, pain, nausea, or a medicine side effect. Conditions such as COVID-19, depression, gastritis, gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, influenza, pancreatic cancer or a peptic ulcer can also present with reduced appetite. The symptom alone does not identify which cause is present. A clinician may ask about weight change, thirst, bowel symptoms, mood, dental health and the person's ability to shop, cook and eat independently.

Arrange a clinical assessment if the change persists, keeps returning or is affecting strength. Keep a simple record of meals, drinks, nausea, bowel movements and medicines. Offer small meals and snacks at times when appetite is strongest, with familiar foods and a calm setting. Include protein-rich choices and fluids unless a clinician has advised a restriction. Check dentures, chewing and swallowing, and ask whether medicines can affect appetite; do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice. A doctor or dietitian can suggest tailored nutrition support.

Seek prompt medical advice if the person is losing weight, becoming weaker, eating very little, vomiting, having trouble swallowing, or showing signs of dehydration such as marked thirst, dry mouth, dizziness or unusually little urine. Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, breathing difficulty, or inability to keep fluids down. Older adults can become unwell quickly, so a noticeable decline in eating or drinking deserves timely assessment.

What causes should we check first? Could any current medicine, dental problem or swallowing difficulty be contributing? What food and fluid plan suits the person's medical conditions? When should weight, blood tests or a dietitian review be arranged?