How Nutrition Needs Change With Age
As we age, our bodies — and our nutritional needs — change.
Understanding these changes can help us make informed choices to maintain health, energy, and wellbeing.
Key Changes in Nutritional Needs
- Lower calorie needs → due to reduced muscle mass and activity levels
- Higher need for certain nutrients → such as calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins
- Changes in appetite and digestion → may affect food intake
- Increased importance of hydration → older adults are at higher risk of dehydration
Tips for Eating Well as We Age
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods → plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Include healthy fats → for heart and brain health
- Prioritise hydration → aim for 6–8 glasses of fluid daily
- Adapt portion sizes to appetite and activity level
- Address dental or swallowing difficulties → choose softer, easy-to-eat foods if needed
Good nutrition supports immune function, bone health, cognitive resilience, and overall quality of life in later years.
Our Cognitive Resilience Hub also offers resources on understanding modern technologies like AI, helping older adults stay informed and empowered.
Explore more nutrition tips in our Eating Well Hub.