Healthy ageing

The four priorities

• Protein — 25 to 30 g at each main meal, not all at dinner.
• Resistance activity, or protein does far less for muscle.
• Calcium and vitamin D for bone.
• Fluid on a schedule, because thirst sensation declines with age.

The hidden causes of poor eating

• Loose dentures and mouth pain.
• Medication causing dry mouth, nausea or taste change.
• Eating alone after bereavement.
• Difficulty shopping and carrying.
• Cost, especially when heating competes with food.

Never accept 'it's just age'

Unplanned weight loss in an older person needs investigating. It is often treatable — infection, thyroid disease, depression, dental problems, or medication side effects.