Changes in eating habits and weight are common as we grow older. Medication side effects, dental problems, less physical activity due to mobility issues, and other factors need to be explored and either addressed or ruled out. But there’s another possible culprit that may surprise you: eating disorders in seniors.
How Can I Recognize Eating Disorders in Seniors?
First, remove any preconceived notions that are common in our society about eating disorders and their predominant impact on the young. Late-onset eating disorders are increasingly and alarmingly common. Anorexia nervosa is by far the most prevalent, affecting 81% of older adults with eating disorders in a recent study. Watch for the following red flags:
- Refusal to eat meals or wanting to be alone at mealtime
- Using the bathroom immediately after a meal (which could indicate purging)
- Expressing negative thoughts about their body image
- Laxative use
- Stomach and/or dental problems
- Hair loss
Eating disorders are especially dangerous for older adults, according to Cynthia Bulik, professor of eating disorders at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She explains, “One of the main concerns is that eating disorders take a tremendous toll on just about every bodily system. In old age, these body systems are less resilient to begin with…so eating disorders can erode them more quickly and more seriously.”
The Distinct Differences Between Anorexia and Bulimia
Though less common than anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa brings additional dangers for seniors, including heart problems. It’s important to understand the differences between these two very serious conditions. In a nutshell, someone with anorexia strives to either lose or avoid gaining weight, while bulimia includes the additional element of binge eating. Additional distinctions include:
- Anorexia involves consuming very little food, excessively monitoring weight, wearing baggy clothes, over exercising to the point of exhaustion or fainting.
- Bulimia displays through episodes of overeating and then either vomiting or taking laxatives or using enemas to eliminate the binged food.
In both types of eating disorders, the person affected will be fixated on the shape and weight of their body as well as with food. They often will not recognize that there is a problem, making it all the more important for family members and caregivers to be vigilant in detecting the signs of an eating disorder.
If you suspect an eating disorder in someone you love, contact the doctor right away for an evaluation and treatment options.
Independence-4-Seniors Home Care is always on hand to help as well. We can prepare meals that are both nutritious and appetizing and provide companionship during mealtime to make it more enjoyable. Our caregivers also watch for and immediately report any troubling symptoms. Contact us online or call (630) 323-4665 for more information on our home care services in La Grange Park, Westchester, Countryside, and the surrounding areas.