**The following post is from my guest blogger, Natalie Langley, MSW.  She is a Geriatric Care Research Analyst for SCANS (for more on SCANS, please see Eric Tinsley's blog by clicking here).**

There are several barriers that can impact the older adult’s ability to achieve good nutrition.  The following checklist can help to ensure older adults are getting the proper nutrition. 

Determine if there is a problem that impairs their ability to eat:

  1. Have a physician/pharmacist review side effects of medications.
  2. Are their teeth/dentures in proper condition?
  3. Are there any physical limitations relating to pain and arthritis?
  4. Is there a decrease in a sense of smell and taste?
  5. Are finances a barrier?
  6. Is their eyesight failing?
  7. Do they have weakness and are not able to carry grocery bags?
  8. Is forgetfulness or dementia present?

As a caregiver or an older adult, make sure to enlist people and programs within the community to help with meal assistance.  One way is to contact your local Area Agency on Aging for meal programs for older adults, such as Meals on Wheels.  This program offers deliverable meals for older adults in their homes.  For a list of local Area Agencies on Aging, you can visit www.n4a.org. 

Another good resource for meal assistance is Seattle Sutton's.  This is an Illinois based company, but they have locations everywhere.  They offer healthy, prepared meals for a reasonable price.  To find a location near you, please visit their website at http://www.seattlesutton.com/.