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| Chronic Disease and Nurtrition
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Nutrition is the major modifiable determinant of chronic disease. Diet changes not only influence present health, but future health as well. The chances are very high that you were brought to this website because of the occurrence of a chronic disease. Research shows that there are three critical aspects relating to chronic diseases in older adults.
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| Chronic Diseases
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| Barriers to good nutrition
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| Single—Social isolation. 85 percent of widowed persons report a weight change during the two years following the death of a spouse. Women report cooking is chore now that there is no one to enjoy their cooking. Many men don’t know how to cook or prepare meals. Special Diet—Because of chronic medical problems, many require special diets. Special diets require extra effort and special knowledge. Physical Problems—Chewing difficulties and gastrointestinal disturbances cause older people to restrict foods important to their health. Adverse reactions to medications can cause problems with certain foods. Other problems such as arthritis, stroke or Alzheimer’s disease can interfere with good nutrition. Money—Lack of money causes people to scrimp on important foods. Financial issues may cause delays in getting medical or dental attention. For more detailed information go to Growing Older, Eating Better |
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| Why Be Concerned About Nutrition?
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| Nutrition remains important throughout life. Good nutrition in the later years still can help lessen the effects of diseases prevalent among older Americans or improve the quality of life in people who have such diseases: osteoporosis, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, gastrointestinal problems, and chronic under nutrition. Good nutrition in later years helps both in reducing the risk of these diseases and in managing the diseases signs and symptoms. It contributes to a higher quality of life. For more detailed information go to Growing Older, Eating Better |