While losing some excess pounds is usually a good thing, unintentional weight loss in seniors may be a sign of a serious underlying health issue. If left untreated, this may have a negative impact on one’s overall health and wellness. As a home care agency, we make sure to watch out for signs of unintentional weight loss in our senior patients.
Here are some reasons why seniors are prone to undesired weight loss:
- Feelings of loneliness and isolationA lack of appetite and willingness to prepare food due to loneliness and isolation may cause weight loss. Depression is also an associated condition.
- Side effects of medicationsSome medications can interfere with taste and can cause anorexia.
- Chronic illnessesDiseases such as cancer and dementia can alter the sense of taste and smell which decreases their appetite. Other illnesses can also cause gastrointestinal issues.
- Mental illnessSome mental illnesses such as bipolar personality and anxiety disorders can manifest through weight loss.
Do you have a senior loved one in need of home health care in Maryland? Come on over and contact us at Sarah’s Peace and Love Home Healthcare. We will provide you with the quality care you can rely on.
We provide various home care services in Laurel, Maryland including personal care, respite care, companionship, homemaking, and others.
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