(HealthDay News) -- Seniors are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition, so caretakers must ensure that the elderly get enough carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice:

  • Provide plenty of healthy foods and snacks.
  • Flavor foods with fresh herbs and spices, avoiding salt.
  • Offer prepackaged supplements, such as nutrition shakes.
  • Promote daily exercise, even a little bit, to help stimulate appetite and promote strong bones and muscles.
  • Plan social activities centering around meals and exercise.