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Questions and Answers
What happens to blood pressure as individuals enter the senior years?
What is considered important in maintaining health later in life for older adults?
Which statement is true regarding the skin of older adults?
What may older adults experience in terms of height as they age?
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Why do nutrient requirements change for older adults beginning at age 51?
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Why do older adults have lower calorie needs compared to younger adults?
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What is a recommended dietary change for older adults related to carbohydrates?
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Why is fiber considered important in the diet of older adults?
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How do sensory issues, such as taste bud decline, impact older adults' eating habits?
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What is the most common cause of dysphagia in older adults?
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Study Notes
Physiological Changes in Older Adults
- Blood pressure increases with age
- The immune system becomes less efficient in battling infections
- Skin becomes thinner, more wrinkled, and takes longer to heal after injury
- Older adults may lose 1-2 inches in height
- Short-term memory may decline
Importance of Nutrition in Older Adults
- Good nutrition is crucial for maintaining health in older adults
- Fitness and nutritional choices made earlier in life impact health in later years
- Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) vary based on age, with changes starting at age 51
Nutrient Needs in Older Adults
- Energy requirements for older adults:
- 1,600-2,200 calories for women
- 2,000-2,800 calories for men, depending on activity level
- Decreased physical activity in older adults influences nutrition requirements
- AMDRs for carbohydrates, protein, and fat remain the same from middle age to old age
- Prioritize whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids
Micronutrients in Older Adults
- Recommended intake levels of several micronutrients increase in older adulthood
- Recommended intake levels of other micronutrients decrease in older adulthood
- Specific micronutrient changes include:
Common Health Concerns in Older Adults
- Nutrition-related health challenges in older adults include:
- Constipation
- Diverticulitis
- Colon cancer
- Disability
- Disease
Nutrition Concerns in Older Adults
- Dietary choices can improve health and address nutrition concerns in older adults
- Specific concerns related to nutrition include:
- Medical problems, such as disability and disease, which can impact diet and activity level
- Sensory issues, such as:
- Decreased taste buds and taste threshold
- Decreased sense of smell
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Dysphagia is associated with stroke and advanced dementia
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Description
Explore the physiological changes that occur during the senior years, from age 51 onwards. Learn about the various health challenges faced by older adults, such as rising blood pressure, weakened immune system, skin changes, height loss, and memory issues.
