You know, it's easy to dismiss a little less appetite or a bit more tiredness as just 'getting older.' But deep down, we worry, don't we? We want to make sure the people we love (and ourselves!) are thriving, feeling strong, and enjoying all the good things life has to offer. And when it comes to nutrition, it can feel like a bit of a puzzle. 

This is where nutritional supplements like Ensure can help—but when is the right time to introduce them? Let’s walk through the signs to look out for, why seniors need extra nutritional support, and how supplement drinks can help keep them strong, energised, and thriving. 

How Do You Know If a Senior Needs a Nutritional Supplement? 

As your loved one ages, their nutritional needs change, but their ability to meet those needs through food alone often declines. According to Nutrition Australia, older adults need just as many, if not more, vitamins and minerals than younger adults, yet many struggle to get enough. 

Here are some signs that your loved one might need a little extra help with their nutrition: 

1. Unintended Weight Loss 

If your loved one has been losing weight without trying, it’s more than just a number on the scale—it could be a sign that their body isn’t getting the calories, protein, or essential nutrients it needs to maintain muscle mass and overall health.  

According to Better Health Victoria, weight loss in older adults isn’t just about appearance; it can lead to weaker muscles, increased frailty, and a higher risk of falls or injuries. If their clothes are feeling looser or you notice a drop in energy, it may be time to introduce a nutritional supplement to help them regain strength and maintain a healthy weight. 

2. Low Energy or Fatigue 

If your loved one seems constantly drained, struggling to get through daily activities, or even finding simple tasks exhausting, their body might be lacking key nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or protein—all of which are vital for maintaining energy and strength, according to the National Institute on Aging.  

As we age, the body absorbs nutrients less efficiently, and if they’re eating less, it’s easy for deficiencies to creep in. If they’re sleeping more than usual, avoiding social outings, or feeling too weak to do the things they love, adding a nutritional supplement could help restore their energy levels and keep them feeling more like themselves. 

3. Loss of Appetite

If you’ve noticed your loved one skipping meals, eating only small portions, or saying food just doesn’t appeal to them anymore, their body may not be getting the nutrients it needs to stay strong and healthy. Loss of appetite is common in ageing, whether due to medications, changes in taste and smell, or underlying health conditions.  

But not eating enough can lead to weakened immunity, muscle loss, and low energy. If they’re regularly pushing their plate away or showing less interest in food, a nutritional supplement drink can be a simple and effective way to ensure they’re still getting the essential vitamins and minerals their body needs. 

4. Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing 

If mealtimes are becoming frustrating or uncomfortable for your loved one, dental issues, dry mouth, or dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) could be making it harder for them to eat. Swallowing problems can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and even choking risks.  

You might notice them avoiding harder or chewy foods, eating much slower than usual, or drinking more liquids just to wash food down. If chewing and swallowing are becoming a struggle, a nutritional supplement drink can provide an easy-to-consume source of nourishment without discomfort—helping them stay well-fed and supported without the stress of difficult meals. 

5. Getting Sick More Often 

If they seem to catch every bug going around, a weakened immune system due to low vitamin C, D, or zinc levels could be to blame (National Institute on Aging). 

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to consider a supplement like Ensure powder to fill in the gaps and keep them healthy. 

Why Do Seniors Need Extra Nutritional Support? 

Even if your loved one is eating a healthy diet, they may not be absorbing nutrients as well as they used to. According to the National Institute on Aging, our bodies produce less stomach acid with age, making it harder to extract key nutrients from food. 

Here’s why ageing changes the way we absorb and use nutrients: 

• Decreased Appetite – Sensory changes, slower digestion, and medications can reduce hunger cues, leading to unintentional under-eating. 
• Muscle Loss (Sarcopenia) – Adults over 70 can lose up to 15% of muscle mass, which increases the risk of falls, fractures, and reduced mobility (Better Health Victoria). 
• Reduced Absorption of Nutrients – Essential nutrients like B12, calcium, and magnesium become harder to absorb, increasing the risk of deficiencies. 
• Chronic Health Conditions – Many older adults manage conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, or heart disease, which can limit food choices and make it harder to get enough nutrients. 
• Medication Side Effects – Some medications interfere with the absorption of iron, folate, and vitamin D, increasing the risk of deficiencies. 

This is why nutritional supplement drinks like Ensure plus can be a game-changer—they’re an easy, effective way to fill those nutritional gaps and support better health as they age. 

How Can Nutritional Supplement Drinks Help? 

Nutritional supplement drinks aren’t about replacing meals—they’re about making sure your loved one gets the nutrients they need when food alone isn’t enough. 

• Maintains Muscle Strength – Protein-rich supplements help preserve muscle mass, keeping your loved one strong and mobile. 
• Boosts Energy Levels – Nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and protein help prevent fatigue and keep them feeling energised. 
• Supports Bone and Joint Health – Calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium help reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. 
• Aids Digestion – Fibre and probiotics support gut health, preventing constipation and bloating. 
• Strengthens the Immune System – Vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants help fight infections and speed up recovery (WebMD). 

For those recovering from illness or surgery, supplement drinks can help them heal faster by providing the nutrients they need to rebuild strength. 

When Should You Introduce a Nutritional Supplement? 

Not sure if it’s time to add a supplement drink to your loved one’s routine? Here are some key moments when it might be the right choice: 

• If They’ve Lost Weight Without Trying – A senior struggling to maintain a healthy weight may need a calorie-dense supplement to prevent further decline. 
• After Surgery or Illness – Recovery requires extra protein and nutrients to help the body heal. 
• When Eating Becomes Difficult – If chewing or swallowing is a challenge, supplement drinks can provide essential nutrition in an easy-to-consume format. 
• If a Doctor Recommends It – If a healthcare provider suggests a supplement, it’s usually because nutrient levels are low and need to be replenished. 

Find the Right Nutritional Support for Your Loved One 

If you’ve been worried about your loved one’s nutrition, you’re not alone. It’s tough watching them eat less and struggle to stay strong, but nutritional supplements like Ensure drink can help. They offer a simple, effective way to make sure they’re getting what they need to feel their best—without the stress of big meals. 

Find out if Ensure is right for you—explore our range of oral nutrition today.