Have you ever looked at a returned tray and thought, “Maybe they just weren’t hungry today”? Appetite loss in older adults is more than just skipping a meal, it can signal a chain reaction of health complications that demand close attention.

Loss of appetite is a common issue among older adults, whether they’re living at home, in senior living communities, or in hospitals. Unfortunately, this can lead to unplanned weight loss and, eventually, to malnutrition. While many associate the term “anorexia” with mental health disorders, in older adults, it often points to a broader and more complex clinical condition.

A recent study published in BMC Geriatrics found that older adults with appetite loss were more likely to experience geriatric depression, increased fall risk (as measured by TUG and Tinetti), higher levels of dependency (Barthel and Lawton indexes), polypharmacy, and dynapenia—the loss of muscle strength.

Now ask yourself: how many residents in your community fall into one or more of those categories? Is your dietary staff alert to signs of reduced intake, like trays coming back nearly untouched or proteins left behind because they’re too hard to chew? Maybe the resident who used to ask for a second dessert has suddenly stopped. These subtle changes often go unnoticed, but they speak volumes.

Even small amounts of weight loss can have real consequences. As highlighted in this McKnight’s Long-Term Care News article, just a five-pound loss can loosen dentures, making chewing uncomfortable and meals less enjoyable. And don’t forget that appetite loss in older adults is more common among women, individuals of advanced age, and those with chronic kidney disease or lower educational levels.

So what can you do? Start by ensuring a licensed pharmacist performs a thorough medication review at least quarterly to reduce the risks associated with polypharmacy. Assess residents for depression every quarter and after any significant change using a validated tool. Restorative nursing and skilled therapy can also play a crucial role in addressing fall risk and gait disturbances.

Yes, the days are busy. And yes, some of these practices should already be second nature. But if they’re not, now is the time to act. Consider this a prime opportunity for your IDT to create a Performance Improvement Project focused on improving nutrition and care. Every resident deserves a proactive approach, especially when the stakes are this high.

Stay well and stay informed!