How can an underweight elderly person improve their nutrition?

In general, excessive thinness in the elderly may be related to factors such as a monotonous diet, slowed metabolism, high psychological stress, iron-deficiency anemia, and gastric ulcers. Nutritional supplementation should be carried out under medical guidance through general interventions, medications, and other treatments. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Monotonous Diet

A limited or unvaried diet, especially one overly reliant on vegetarian foods, can lead to nutritional imbalances in older adults. Insufficient intake of protein, fats, and other essential nutrients may result in excessive weight loss. It is important to maintain a balanced diet and increase consumption of high-quality carbohydrates such as purple sweet potatoes, Chinese yam, and coix seed.

2. Slowed Metabolism

With aging, metabolic function declines, reducing the body's ability to absorb and utilize nutrients. This often leads to energy expenditure exceeding intake, resulting in weight loss. Increasing physical activity appropriately—such as walking, practicing tai chi, or dancing in the square—can help enhance metabolic capacity.

3. High Psychological Stress

Emotional factors such as living alone, loneliness, or feelings of loss may reduce appetite and food intake in the elderly. Prolonged reduction in eating can lead to significant weight loss. It is important to address feelings of loneliness and anxiety promptly to improve appetite and dietary intake.

4. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Inadequate dietary intake of iron can impair blood cell formation, leading to iron-deficiency anemia. This condition reduces overall bodily function and weakens the absorption and utilization of nutrients, contributing to weight loss. Symptoms often include diarrhea, poor appetite, fatigue, and weakness. Treatment may include iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous gluconate tablets, or polysaccharide-iron complex capsules, taken as directed by a physician.

5. Gastric Ulcer

When excess stomach acid and digestive enzymes combine with weakened mucosal defense mechanisms, gastric mucosal damage may occur, leading to gastric ulcers. Upper abdominal pain and indigestion can make eating uncomfortable, reducing appetite and causing significant weight loss. Symptoms often include bloating and nausea. Medications such as Nuang Wei Shu Le granules, esomeprazole magnesium enteric-coated capsules, or famotidine tablets may be used under medical supervision.

Excessive thinness in the elderly can be addressed by adjusting dietary patterns, increasing intake of nutrient-rich foods, and managing psychological stress, thereby ensuring adequate nutrition and maintaining good health.