What dietary concern may arise due to nerve disorders in the elderly population?

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Prepare for the UCF HUN3011 Human Nutrition Exam. Study with flashcards and questions with explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Nerve disorders in the elderly can significantly impact their ability to eat and obtain proper nutrition, leading to feeding problems. These disorders may affect fine motor skills, making it difficult for individuals to handle utensils, chew food properly, or even bring food to their mouths. Additionally, conditions such as neuropathy can alter sensations in the mouth or throat, which may discourage eating or lead to issues with swallowing. This can result in nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and an overall decline in health due to inadequate food intake.

Feeding problems encompass a wide range of issues, including difficulty in preparing meals, loss of appetite, and complications related to the physical act of eating. Addressing these feeding issues often requires interventions to ensure that the elderly continue to receive proper nutrition and caloric intake to support their health and well-being.

In contrast, while overeating and weight gain can be concerns for various populations, the primary issue stemming from nerve disorders in older adults is related to the ability to consume adequate nutrition rather than excess. Increased calcium intake is typically not a direct concern arising from nerve disorders and would not specifically address the immediate dietary implications of such conditions.