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when 86-year-old Mrs Peterson's daughter
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noticed her mother had lost a
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significant amount of weight she became
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concerned and took her to various
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doctors although a thorough examination
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of Mrs Peterson's gastrointestinal tract
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revealed no issues doctors remained
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worried about the possibility of cancer
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and suggested more invasive tests to
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cancer the daughter frustrated with the
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lack of answers about Mom's weight loss
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made an appointment with the
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during that visit Miss Peterson shared
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that she had been under a lot of stress
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and was experiencing major depression
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due to an emotional trauma she had
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endured the previous year she agreed to
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try anti-depressants and talk to a
0:42
psychologist she said at the minimum
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this sounds better than going to many
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doctors over time Mrs Peterson's mood
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improved significantly and she regained
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most of the weight she had lost she had
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depression of mind not cancer of the
0:58
body weight loss in older adults is a
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widespread concern affecting roughly 25%
1:04
of seniors if your loved one appears
1:06
noticeably thinner without intention it
1:09
could indicate underlying health issues
1:11
today we'll dive into the causes of
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unexplained weight loss in seniors the
1:16
warning signs to Monitor and practical
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strategies to promote their health and
1:21
well-being this is Dr Arman Shoki a
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geriatric oncologist I am double board
1:26
certified in geriatrics and oncology I
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have more than than 12 years of
1:30
experience in taking care of older
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adults with or without cancer
1:35
unexplained weight loss occurs when
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someone loses a significant amount of
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weight over 6 to 12 months without
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changing their diet or
1:43
lifestyle alarmingly this affects about
1:46
one in four older adults watch for
1:48
warning signs like diminished appetite
1:50
forgetfulness or weaken strength and
1:53
ensure these are discussed with their
1:54
health care provider promptly many
1:57
health conditions such as cancer
1:59
diabetes or gastrointestinal problems
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can disrupt appetite or digestion
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leading to weight loss likewise limited
2:08
Mobility weakens muscles faster than fat
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is lost exacerbating the problem lastly
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chemical imbalances can prevent proper
2:16
nutrient absorption further contributing
2:18
to the issue medication side effect can
2:21
alter taste or smell causing a meal to
2:23
become unappealing some may also lead to
2:25
nausea vomiting or swallowing
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difficulties making eating uncomfortable
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if weight loss occurs it is critical to
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review medications with a healthc care
2:33
provider to address these challenges
2:36
effectively forgetting to eat or being
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unable to prepare meals due to cognitive
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decline like dementia can result in
2:43
weight loss depression similarly affects
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eating habits and self-care routines
2:48
adding to the risk is social isolation
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which deprives seniors of mealtime
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company leading to regular eating
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patterns seniors with limited incomes
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often struggle to afford balanced meals
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impacting their nutrition physical
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discomfort while eating such as from
3:04
chewing or swallowing issues further
3:06
deters healthy eating habits a lack of
3:09
caregiving support compounds these
3:11
problems making meal preparation and
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grocery shopping overwhelming
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tasks start with a thorough medical
3:18
evaluation to uncover the root causes of
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weight loss and seek professional
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guidance treat any identified medical
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issues appropriately from chronic
3:28
conditions to medication adjustments for
3:31
unresolved problems nutrition
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recommendations and consultations with
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dietitians can help meet dietary needs
3:38
promote regular exercise including
3:40
strength training to maintain muscle
3:42
mass encourage protein-rich Foods fiber
3:45
and hydration to support Health
3:47
additionally Foster social interactions
3:49
to reduce isolation and Inspire
3:51
consistent eating habits remember early
3:54
intervention improves outcomes when
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weight loss concerns arise if you
3:58
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