Causes of Anorexia in Seniors
As we age, our metabolism slows and it is natural to begin eating less as a result. But in elderly eating disorder sufferers, the process is accelerated, and it sometimes takes on a dangerous and unstoppable momentum. Some of the complicating factors that lead to full-fledged eating disorders in the elderly include:- Depression. Loss of the desire to eat is often a side effect of depression, and over 6 million American seniors are known to suffer from serious depression.
- Medication. Many prescription medications suppress appetite, and because many elderly Americans take multiple pharmaceutical drugs, the effect can be especially pronounced.
- Physical problems. Many seniors have physical pains or maladies that make eating a less-than-pleasant experience (stomach troubles, chronic constipation, poorly fitting dentures or tooth pain, shakiness that makes it hard to manage utensils, etc.)
- Dementia. Seniors with dementia may forget to eat or lose the ability to do so.
- Concern over weight and appearance. This phenomenon is not confined to the young. A 2006 study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders involving 1,000 elderly women reported that 60% of them were dissatisfied with their bodies and 80% were practicing some type of weight control.
Signs of Anorexia in Seniors
In addition to a chronic unwillingness to eat, or a desire to eat only certain kinds of foods, other anorexia symptoms in seniors include:- Pale, often bluish skin tone
- Thinning hair (possibly falling out)
- Dizziness and fainting spells
- Constant preoccupation with weight, appearance and calorie consumption
- Onset or worsening of osteoporosis
- Defensiveness or denial about eating behavior
- Intolerance for the cold
- Ritualistic eating practices
- Excessive thinness punctuated by periods of sudden weight loss
