Gerontological Nursing
Geriatric Nutrition
Age-related physiological changes often lead to malnutrition and dehydration.
Common Barriers
- Diminished sense of taste and smell (hypogeusia).
- Dysphagia or poorly fitting dentures.
- Social isolation leading to decreased interest in eating.
- Side effects of medications affecting appetite.
Interventions
- Provide calorie-dense, nutrient-rich small frequent meals.
- Perform swallow screenings if coughing or choking occurs.
- Encourage oral hygiene before meals to enhance appetite.
- Offer fluid choices frequently throughout the day.
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