Adult Failure to Thrive

Adult Failure to Thrive (AFTT) is a state of decline that can happen when a senior has multiple chronic diseases, takes certain medications, becomes depressed, and/or has limited or no social support. The person usually experiences the loss of ability to function or “get around,” and has a greater need for help with ADLs. In addition, the person experiences worsening depression and shows a loss of willingness to eat and drink that can eventually lead to death.

The Symptoms of AFTT

Decreased appetite.
Poor nutrition.
Dehydration.
Risk for infection.
Increased risk for pressure ulcers.
Weight loss greater than 5% of baseline.
Inactivity.
Depression.
Cognitive decline.
Increased risk for hip fractures.

Important!

Many of the symptoms associated with AFTT can be treated and reversed. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of AFTT as soon as possible so that treatment can be most effective. Remember...the symptoms of adult failure to thrive should not be considered a normal consequence of aging.

WHAT CAUSES ADULT FAILURE TO THRIVE?

It is impossible to pinpoint a specific “cause” of failure to thrive in adults. There are many different medical conditions that can lead to failure to thrive, including cancer, stroke, chronic infections, inflammatory conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and psychiatric conditions. In addition, some common medications can also contribute to AFTT. These include seizure medications, anti-anxiety drugs, beta blockers—and any combination of more than four prescription medications.

Helping Clients Who Have Adult Failure to Thrive

It’s important to watch for and report the signs of failure to thrive early—before the situation becomes dangerous. Report to your supervisor right away if any of your clients are unwilling to eat or drink, if they seem to experience a bout of depression for no reason, or if there is any other sudden decline in their health.
Remember, poor nutrition and dehydration can quickly become dangerous, especially in the elderly. Keep track of what your client eats and drinks. Check his or her weight to monitor for weight loss. Report to your supervisor right away if your client eats less than 25% of most meals.
Monitor and report any chronic diarrhea. This may be a sign that food is not being absorbed properly. It’s a condition that can usually be treated.
Clients who receive chemotherapy or radiation for cancer treatment may experience nausea and vomiting. This is also treatable and reversible. Be sure to report to your supervisor if your client is unable to eat or drink because of nausea or vomiting.
Some medications and the normal aging process can leave clients unable to smell and taste food the way they used to. This can make eating a miserable experience. Talk to your supervisor. There are certain spices and herbs that can be safely added to most people’s food to make it easier to taste.
Promote hope and spiritual well-being by connecting your clients to sources of life and joy, even at times of illness, suffering, and death. For example, a visit from children, a walk on a sunny day, the love of family, even an exciting sports event can divert the mind away from fear and hopelessness, even for a short while. It can be extremely restorative.
Reminisce with your client about his or her life. The process of remembering past pleasant activities inspires hope.
When possible, provide opportunities for social interaction. This may be in the form of visits from family and friends, group activities, eating in the dining room instead of alone in the room, and/or attending religious services.