Loss of Appetite in Elderly

Common Causes

• Medications — Multiple pills for chronic conditions might suppress hunger as a common side effect.
• Depression or grief — Loss of loved ones or loneliness may lower desire to eat.
• Dementia — Memory issues could lead to forgetting meals or losing interest.
• Chronic diseases — Conditions like COPD or kidney disease often reduce appetite.
• Loss of taste or smell — Aging changes might make food less appealing.

Learn More

For a full overview of this symptom, including home remedies and when to see a doctor, read our complete guide on Loss of Appetite.