Community Aging Support Alliance logo representing aging at home resources and education.
Community Aging Support Alliance logo representing aging at home resources and education.
FAQHealth & Daily LifeNoticing Changes

What should I do if my elderly parent is not eating?

Quick answer · Updated November 2026

Start by looking for the reason. Medicines, mouth or denture problems, changes in taste and smell, or low mood can all cause an older parent to eat less.

Call the doctor if your parent loses more than 10 pounds without trying. Bring a list of medicines and ask if any affect appetite. Do not stop a medicine without the doctor’s okay.

Small changes at home can help:
– Offer smaller meals and snacks more often.
– Keep favorite foods on hand.
– Eat together when you can, in person or on a video call.
– Book a dental visit if chewing seems to hurt.

If shopping or cooking is hard, meal delivery may help. To see what else to watch for, read about signs of malnutrition in an older parent.

Sources

  1. medlineplus.gov
  2. nia.nih.gov

This answer is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules can vary by state.

ASK CASA

Have a question about your parent?

Tell us what you are noticing. A member of the CASA team will reply by phone or email with guidance that fits your family.

No pressure. Just a place to start.

KEEP EXPLORING

Keep going with the questions that come next

ChecklistMedication Management for Seniors: A Family ChecklistHow to spot medicine problems, build one master list, choose a pill organizer or reminder and get ready for the next doctor visit with your elderly parent.7 min read →VideoHow to Talk to Elderly Parents About Accepting HelpA short role-play of a first conversation with a parent who needs help, with simple words to use, ways to offer choices and what to do if they say no.Watch →GuideThe Stages of Dementia: What Families Can Expect at HomeWhat each stage of dementia looks like in daily life at home, from early memory slips to full-time care, and what your family can do at every step.7 min read →GuideAt What Age Should Your Parent Stop Driving? A Family GuideThere is no set age to stop driving. Learn the warning signs, how a driving evaluation works, how to start the talk and how to plan rides without the car.6 min read →VideoHow to Choose and Place Grab Bars for Elderly ParentsA short bathroom walk-through showing where grab bars help your parent most, why towel bars and suction bars are not safe, and when to call a pro.Watch →GuideHow to Get Power of Attorney for an Elderly ParentA plain guide to power of attorney for an elderly parent: the main types, why timing matters, how to bring it up, and what to do if your parent can no longer sign.7 min read →

You don't have to figure this out alone

Ask questions and learn from other families in the CASA community.

Visit the Forum
THE CASA WEEKLY

Be ready before you need to be

Practical guidance to help you spot changes earlier, ask better questions, and make more informed decisions as your loved one ages at home.

find resources near you