Poor appetite is a common problem in older people living at home and in care homes, as well as hospital inpatients. It can contribute to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies, and associated poor healthcare outcomes, including increased mortality. Understanding the causes of reduced appetite and knowing how to measure it will enable nurses and other clinical staff working in a range of community and hospital settings to identify patients with impaired appetite. A range of strategies can be used to promote better appetite and increase food intake.Before reading this article do time out 1.
IntroductionAppetite is the desire to fulfil a bodily need and can be divided into three components: hunger, satiation and satiety. Hunger is the sensation that promotes food consumption, satiation is the sensation of fullness during eating that leads to meal termination and satiety is the fullness that exists between eating occasions (Mattes et al., 2005).
Control of appetiteAppetite regulation is complex and not completely understood. It has control systems linking the brain, digestive system, endocrine system and sensory nerves. These systems act to govern appetite both in the short term and the long term. In the short term appetite is Correspondence alp@mrc.soton.ac.uk.
(i) A mealtime assistance scheme should incorporate training, supervision and support for volunteers; (ii) Good relationships and a sense of teamwork can develop between wards staff and volunteers; (iii) Impact may be maximised in the context of 'protected mealtimes'.
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