My 83-year-old father is not eating right and has no zest for anything that involves exercise. He has a spinal fracture and won't see the doctor. What do we do?

MAGGIE:

The nagging pain he must be going through will depress anyone enough to the point of giving up; on everything -- doctor included.

If he suffers from multiple spinal compression fractures, a shorter spine can compress the stomach, causing a bulging stomach and digestive problems like constipation, less appetite, and weight loss. So it's understandable his energy is low and he feels tired all the time.

If he seems too tired to chew, try feeding him cups of thick broths. And when he looks perkier than usual, try snacks packed with calories (e.g., small crackers with roasted peanut butter). Don't forget the multi-vitamins.

Wish you the best.

-- ED

If he has a spinal fracture, he is probably in pain and can't tell you.

Pls. keep in mind I am not an expert but I read somewhere (can't remember which website) that elderly people tend to eat less because their metabolism is low since they do less. Have u tried taking your father to a Sr. Ctr. where they have activities. One way to get your father to see a Dr. is to make an apt. and just take him. In other words, tell him you r taking him to visit Aunt Sally or whatever........