Weight loss in older people a risk - Experts warns

Health experts have warned that millions of older people could be putting their health in danger by thinking it is normal to lose weight without trying as they age.

According to a survey carried out by the Malnutrition Task Force in the UK, which is made of experts from health, social care and local government, it found that 36 per cent of people over the age of 60 think it is okay to lose weight with age, while 75 per cent have never worried about themselves or another older person unintentionally losing weight.

The task force, says losing weight can be an early warning sign of malnutrition or another serious condition, such as cancer, dementia or liver disease and stressed that getting thinner is not a normal part of ageing.

Signs and symptoms of malnutrition include tiredness, low energy, dizziness and getting repeated infections.

"The risk of becoming undernourished increases significantly as people age and it is further complicated by the incorrect assumption within society that losing weight is a normal part of the ageing process, when it fact should actually raise alarm bells," said Lesley Carter, the lead expert for the Malnutrition Task Force Lead.

"We all know that obesity causes serious health problems but there are also serious health consequences for older people who are at the other end of the scale and don't eat enough."

Press Association