Causes of poor nutrition

A lack of interest in food, poor eating habits, resistance to eating or loss of appetite may be related to a number of issues.

• Memory loss. A person with dementia may forget to eat or drink.
• Trouble sequencing or multitasking. Challenges with planning, following steps or doing multiple tasks may lead to difficulty cooking or preparing meals.
• Sensory changes. A decrease in the sense of smell or taste may result in a lack of interest in food.
• Agitation. Agitation and related changes in behavior may make it difficult to eat enough during mealtimes.
• Dental problems. Poorly fitting dentures, mouth sores or other dental problems may result in avoiding food or beverages.
• Medications. Some medications can result in a loss of appetite.
• Lack of exercise. A lack of exercise can result in a loss of appetite.
• Poor coordination. A change in physical coordination can make it difficult to handle utensils.
• Depression. Depression can result in a lack of interest in eating and a decreased appetite.
• Constipation. A lack of dietary fiber, water and exercise increases the risk of constipation, which can lead to a lack of appetite.
• Poor chewing and swallowing skills. In later stages of the disease, a person with dementia will likely have difficulty chewing and swallowing.