What to Do When a Parent Won’t Eat
A parent who stops eating is frightening. But there are usually reasons — and solutions. Here is how to figure out what is going on and what to do about it.
Step 1: Rule out a medical cause first. Loss of appetite can be a sign of depression, a new medication side effect, tooth pain, or illness. If your parent suddenly stops eating, call the doctor.
Step 2: Check what they can and cannot taste. As people age, their sense of taste and smell gets weaker. Food they once loved may taste like nothing. Try stronger flavors, warmer foods, or adding a little seasoning.
Step 3: Make smaller meals more often. Three big meals a day can feel overwhelming. Five small ones throughout the day are often easier to manage and more likely to get eaten.
Step 4: Make mealtime social. Eating alone is hard. Sitting with your parent, even if you are not eating, can encourage them to eat more. Put on some background music they enjoy.
Step 5: Let them choose. Offer two simple options rather than deciding for them. Having a choice gives them control, which matters a lot to older adults.
Step 6: Try familiar comfort foods. New foods are harder to accept as people age. Old favorites — even simple ones — are more likely to be eaten.
If your parent loses more than 10 pounds without trying, or refuses to eat for more than two days, contact their doctor right away.
