Appetite often shrinks with age, but nutritional needs don't. The goal isn't forcing three big meals — it's making the calories that are eaten count.
Think small and frequent
Five or six small meals or snacks throughout the day are often easier to manage than three large plates, and they keep energy more level.
Add protein and healthy fats where you can
A spoonful of nut butter, a hard-boiled egg, or a bit of cheese added to an otherwise light meal boosts nutritional density without adding much volume.
Make food easy to eat
Softer textures, smaller cut sizes, and finger foods can help when chewing or using utensils has become tiring.
Don't underestimate flavour
Taste and smell often dull with age, which can make food feel unappealing. Herbs, citrus, and familiar seasonings can bring a meal back to life without adding excess salt.
Make mealtime social
Eating with company — even just a caregiver sitting at the table — measurably increases how much a person eats. Isolation at mealtimes is an underrated appetite suppressor.
If weight loss continues despite these changes, it's worth mentioning to a physician, since reduced appetite can also signal an underlying health issue.
