My mother is 88-years-old and has always had a good appetite, now all of a sudden she is never hungry and has to force herself to eat. What could be wrong??

There probably isn't anything wrong...this happens as they age. They don't get as much exercise as before so they aren't burning the calories, thus they need less food. To be absolutely sure you should take Mom to her physician and get a check-up in case there might be something going on to cause the lack of appetite. My mil appetite has dropped remarkedly in the last month or so.....she is just slowing down...she is 86 yr. Good luck to you!

Judy-Would it be possible to speak with your Mom's physician-and get his/her opinion on where to go from here? There could be several reasons why your Mom's appetite is decreasing, As mentioned, it may simply have to do with age. In the meantime, something like Boost or Ensure may give your Mom the necessary supplements she needs-until she is back on course. I have seen, as a person ages-they seem to hold their problems in, and shield them from their children, and this may be a possibilty.
Best to you in resolving this issue~
Hap