Best Food for Elderly People With No Appetite

It’s natural for eating habits to change as we get older. Some people may find that food no longer tastes the same or that they feel full more quickly than they did before. Others may lose interest in meals altogether, especially if they live alone, feel unwell or take medication that affects their appetite.

While a small appetite might not seem like a serious concern, eating too little over time can lead to weight loss, weakness and lower energy levels. This can make everyday tasks harder and increase the risk of illness or falls.

The good news is that with a few simple changes, it’s often possible to help someone eat more and enjoy their food again. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of food that are most helpful for older people with low appetites and share practical tips to make mealtimes more appealing and nutritious.

Why do older people lose their appetite?

It’s quite common for older adults to eat less than they used to. This can happen gradually or more suddenly, and often for a variety of reasons. Understanding what might be causing a loss of appetite can help you find gentle and practical ways to support better eating habits.

Common causes include:

Changes in taste and smell
Side effects of medication
Dental issues or poorly fitting dentures
Digestive problems or feeling full quickly
Loneliness, low mood or depression
Memory loss or confusion, especially with dementia
Reduced physical activity

Signs of poor appetite to look out for

Loss of appetite in older people can sometimes go unnoticed, especially if it happens slowly over time. Being aware of the small signs can help you spot when someone may need support with eating.

Look out for:

Eating much less than usual or skipping meals altogether
Clothes that appear looser or belts that need tightening
Tiredness or low energy during the day
Gradual or sudden weight loss
Uneaten food left in the fridge or around the home
Loss of interest in favourite foods or snacks

These changes may not always be serious, but if they continue or worsen, it’s a good idea to seek advice from a GP or dietitian.

Tips to make mealtimes more appealing

Helping someone enjoy food again often involves more than just what’s on the plate. A calm and thoughtful mealtime setting can gently encourage better eating habits.

Offer favourite and familiar foods – Familiar tastes can bring comfort and spark interest in eating. Stick to dishes you know they’ve enjoyed in the past.
Eat together whenever possible – Sharing a mealtime, even with a cup of tea or light snack, can make eating feel more sociable and relaxed.
Keep the environment calm and quiet – Reduce background noise, dim harsh lighting and clear the table to help create a soothing and focused space.
Use smaller plates and simple presentation – Small portions on an uncluttered plate can feel more manageable. A colourful plate may help make food more visually appealing.
Add herbs, spices or stronger flavours – A loss of taste or smell can make food seem bland. Mild spices or flavourful herbs can make meals more enjoyable.

Best types of food to encourage eating

When appetite is low, large meals can feel overwhelming. The key is to offer foods that are easy to manage, comforting and packed with nutrition in smaller portions. Here are some of the best options to gently encourage eating in older adults.

Small and frequent meals

Instead of three full meals, try offering food little and often throughout the day. Light meals spaced out every two to three hours can help someone eat more without feeling full too quickly. This approach also provides regular energy boosts, which can help with tiredness and motivation.

High-protein options

Protein is essential for maintaining strength, supporting the immune system and preventing muscle loss. Soft, easy-to-chew sources like scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, fish in sauce or slow-cooked meats are ideal. You can also include plant-based options such as lentil soups, soft tofu dishes or hummus with soft bread.

Nutrient-dense snacks

When every bite counts, it helps to choose snacks that offer plenty of calories and nutrients. Full-fat yoghurt with berries, cheese and crackers, peanut butter on toast or a small bowl of porridge with cream and honey are all good, heart healthy food choices. These snacks are simple, quick to prepare and gentle on the stomach.

Easy-to-eat finger foods

For someone who finds cutlery tricky or feels more comfortable eating with their hands, finger foods can make a big difference. Offer things like small sandwiches, sliced fruit, vegetable sticks with dip, mini pancakes or sausage rolls. These are also helpful for people with dementia who may not recognise mealtime routines.

Soft, comforting foods

Warm, smooth textures can feel more appealing when appetite is low. Soups, mashed potato, scrambled eggs, stewed fruits and creamy puddings are gentle and easy to digest. These foods can be made more nourishing by adding butter, cream or grated cheese.

Sweet or strongly flavoured foods

As taste buds dull with age, sweet or stronger flavours can help spark interest in food. Jam on toast, a piece of fruitcake or a mild curry with fragrant spices may be more tempting than plainer meals. Be open to changing preferences when cooking for the elderly – someone may enjoy different tastes than they used to.

High-calorie drinks

If eating solid food is difficult, nourishing drinks are a helpful way to get extra energy and hydration. Offer smoothies with yoghurt or nut butter, full-fat milk, fortified milkshakes or soups with blended vegetables and cream. These can be especially useful between meals or in the evening.

Simple meal ideas for older people with a small appetite

Breakfasts:

Porridge made with full-fat milk, topped with honey or mashed banana
Scrambled eggs on buttered toast or soft brown bread
Weetabix or Ready Brek with warm milk
Toast with jam, marmalade or peanut butter
Soft-boiled egg with soldiers

Light lunches:

Cream of tomato soup with buttered bread or a cheese scone
Tuna mayonnaise sandwich on soft wholemeal bread
Cheese and pickle sandwich with a handful of crisps
Baked beans on toast with grated cheese
Quiche with a small side of potato salad or coleslaw

Hearty yet gentle dinners:

Shepherd’s pie with soft carrots or peas
Fish pie with mashed potato and a little grated cheese on top
Cauliflower cheese with a slice of soft bread or roll
Soft-boiled gammon with mashed swede and gravy
Omelette with mushrooms or cheese, served with a few cooked cherry tomatoes

Snacks and extras:

Full-fat yoghurt or rice pudding
Cheese and crackers
Sliced banana or tinned peaches in juice
Malt loaf or fruit scone with butter
Small bowls of custard, jelly or trifle
Fortified milkshake or a fruit smoothie with yoghurt

How can Country Cousins help?

Since 1959, we’ve been helping people live comfortably and safely in their own homes with the support of a carefully matched live-in carer. As the UK’s longest-serving introductory live-in care agency, we understand the value of continuity, compassion and familiar surroundings. Whether it’s ongoing support or more specialist care, we’re here to make life easier for you and your loved ones.

Learn more about our elderly care at home.

Talk to our team today

If you or a loved one are exploring live-in care, speak with one of our friendly team today. They can provide expert advice and guidance on the best option for your needs.

Give us a call today on 01293 224 706. Our experienced team is on hand to help from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. Alternatively, contact us through our online enquiry form.