Early Indicators of Weight Loss in Elderly Care
Weight loss is a common issue among older people, especially those who live in nursing homes. While it’s hard to determine the cause of weight loss, it is important to identify it early to prevent further complications. So before consulting a healthcare professional or nursing home abuse lawyer, here are some early indicators of weight loss in elderly care and what steps you can take to address them.
Signs That an Elderly Loved One Is Losing Weight
Decrease in Appetite
Some older adults don’t eat as much as they used to when they were younger. However, if you notice a sudden decrease in appetite, it may be an early indicator of weight loss. This can be due to various factors, such as depression, medication side effects, dental problems, or changes in taste and smell. Another cause could be a decline in mobility, making it harder for them to prepare or access food.
Change in Physical Appearance
Weight loss can be evident in the body shape of an elderly loved one. Clothes may become looser, and there may be a visible decrease in muscle mass and body fat. This can indicate that they are not consuming enough calories to maintain weight. In this case, they must consult a healthcare professional to address the underlying cause of weight loss.
Mood Changes
Depression and anxiety are among the most common mood changes that can be observed in older people. They may show signs of sadness, irritability, and social withdrawal. They may also experience feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. If these mood changes persist, seek the help of a medical expert to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect
There are instances when elderly individuals in nursing homes may experience abuse or neglect from their caretakers. Abuse may show as bruises, behavior changes, and fear of certain staff, while neglect may show as poor hygiene, malnutrition, and dehydration.
Suppose a caregiver suspects nursing home abuse or neglect. In that case, they should contact a nursing home abuse lawyer immediately to protect the rights of elderly patients and help caregivers take legal action against negligent nursing homes.
What to Do When an Elderly Loved One Is Suddenly Losing Weight
If you speculate that an elderly patient is experiencing weight loss, you can consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the weight loss. Depending on the cause, the healthcare professional may recommend diet, medication, or physical activity changes.
In addition to medical intervention, caregivers can ensure that the patient receives proper nutrition. This can include providing meals that are high in protein and calories, as well as snacks between meals. Encouraging the patient to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to maintain their energy levels is important.
Physical activity is also significant in preserving a healthy weight. Caregivers can encourage elderly patients to engage in light exercise such as walking or stretching. This can stimulate their appetite and prevent muscle loss.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss is a common issue among elderly patients, and it is important to identify it early to prevent further complications. Caregivers should immediately contact a home abuse lawyer if nursing home abuse or neglect is suspected. By working with healthcare professionals and ensuring proper nutrition and physical activity, caregivers can help elderly patients maintain a healthy weight and prevent further health complications.
If you or a loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse, hiring a qualified nursing home abuse lawyer is crucial. At Bossie, Reilly, & Oh, we understand the complexities of these cases and will fight tirelessly to ensure justice is served. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of success and will work closely with you to build a strong case. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and take the first step towards holding those responsible accountable.