Aging 2 Flashcards
How does atrophic gastritis affect nutrient absorption in older adults?
Atrophic gastritis increases stomach pH, reducing the secretion of acid and enzymes necessary for releasing vitamin B12 and digesting protein, leading to impaired absorption.
What physiological changes related to oral health impact eating habits in older adults?
Decreased oral health and conditions like periodontitis make chewing and swallowing more difficult, which can reduce food intake and dietary variety.
How does a reduced sense of taste and smell influence food intake in aging populations?
It diminishes appetite and interest in food, leading to decreased energy and nutrient intake.
Why do vitamin D requirements increase with age?
Older adults synthesize less vitamin D due to reduced sun exposure, skin synthesis, and hydroxylation in the liver and kidneys.
What causes increased acid reflux in older adults?
Decreased sphincter control in the esophagus increases the risk of acid reflux.
What nutrients are especially important to prevent sarcopenia and osteoporosis in older adults?
Protein, calcium, and vitamin D are crucial to maintain muscle and bone mass.
Why are smaller meals often recommended for older adults?
Reduced gastric motility makes large meals uncomfortable and harder to digest.
What dietary strategy is helpful for constipation in older adults?
Increasing dietary fiber helps manage constipation by improving bowel regularity.
How do age-related cardiovascular and kidney changes affect sodium and potassium recommendations?
Reduced arterial elasticity and kidney function require careful monitoring of sodium and potassium intake to avoid complications.
How do chronic disease and medications influence nutrition in aging?
They can alter nutrient requirements, interfere with nutrient absorption, and affect appetite or metabolism.
Why is nutrient inadequacy more common despite stable RDAs in older adults?
Energy needs decline with age, so older adults must consume fewer calories while still meeting nutrient needs, requiring more nutrient-dense food choices.
How is energy requirement estimated in older adults, and what changes occur with age?
Energy is estimated using the same EER as younger adults, but needs decrease with lower physical activity and basal metabolic rate.
Why might the protein RDA for older adults be insufficient?
While the RDA remains the same, newer methods like indicator amino acid oxidation suggest older adults may need higher protein to prevent muscle loss.
What is the recommended fluid intake for older adults, and why are they at risk for dehydration?
AI is 3.7L/day for males and 2.7L/day for females. Older adults have reduced thirst perception, lower total body water, and impaired ability to concentrate urine.
Why is fiber still important in aging, even with slightly reduced energy needs?
Fiber helps prevent constipation, lowers LDL cholesterol, and reduces cardiovascular risk, maintaining its importance despite lower calorie needs.
What are the RDA recommendations for vitamin D in older adults, and why?
600 IU/day for ages 50–70 and 800 IU/day for 71+, due to lower synthesis and activation in the skin, liver, and kidneys. A 400 IU supplement is recommended from age 50.
How does calcium RDA change with age and why?
Calcium needs increase from 1000mg to 1200mg/day in women 50+ (due to menopause) and all adults 71+ to preserve bone density.
What challenges are associated with vitamin B12 absorption in older adults?
Age-related atrophic gastritis and reduced intrinsic factor impair the absorption of protein-bound B12 from food.
What is the recommended approach to meet vitamin B12 needs in people over 50?
Adults over 50 should consume fortified B12 or take a supplement because 10–30% may not absorb naturally occurring B12 efficiently.
What are two key resources for healthy eating in older adults?
Canada’s Food Guide and community support programs offering practical advice on food selection, cooking, and meal planning.
Why is food safety especially important for older adults?
Aging impairs immune function, sensory perception, and cognitive ability, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
What are key food safety tips for older adults?
Wash hands/surfaces, separate raw and cooked foods, maintain proper temperatures (hot >140°F, cold <40°F), refrigerate within 2 hours, and discard questionable food.
What do surveys show about nutrient intake adequacy in older Canadian adults?
Even those following Canada’s Food Guide may have inadequate intakes of vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium.
Which supplements are commonly recommended for older adults and why?
Vitamin D (400 IU/day) and fortified/supplemental B12 for those over 50, due to decreased synthesis and absorption. Calcium supplementation may be considered with caution.
