I got the following again from Ask Dutchy and it's about possible reasons why elderly people sometimes don't eat:

Here are some practical reasons why elderly people do not eat. These reasons should help you clue in to your senior. If their eating problems are persistant or chronic you should consult your primary care provider.

Several factors can cause malnutrition in older adults, including the following:

* Loss of appetite. Older adults lose their appetites for many reasons, including physical disease, mental illness, or emotional distress.

* Decreased sense of taste and/or smell. Many of the diseases that affect older adults and the medications they take can reduce their sense of smell and taste, making it difficult and even unpleasant to eat.

* Difficulty chewing and/or swallowing. Poor dentition affects many older adults and can contribute to a vicious cycle of malnutrition; as older people become malnourished and lose weight, their dentures may not fit correctly, making it even more difficult to eat. Swallowing problems also affect many older adults, making eating difficult.

* Loss of physical strength or mobility. Elders who are frail or immobile are often unable to shop and cook. Even something as simple as opening a can of soup or a frozen dinner and putting it into the microwave can be difficult for someone who is physically debilitated.

* Chronic diseases and medications. Older adults often have at least one chronic medical condition and often take a slew of different medications. Certain disease states, as well as side effects from medications, can interfere with appetite, digestion, and even absorption of certain nutrients.

* Mental and emotional factors. Mental illness, such as depression and age-related dementia, and social isolation affect many elders and can dampen their desire and ability to eat.

* Financial insecurity. Financial problems can make it difficult for many older adults to get the nutrition they need.

Resources:
Administration on Aging

American Dietetic Association

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