Eating Disorders in older populations is being reported enough that researchers are beginning to study why there is this increase. When discussing eating disorders we automatically think about the adolescent waifs or stick figure models in their teens or early twenties. The research now indicates the elderly are seeking treatment programs for eating disorders but come by the disease in a much different way than teenage girls.

Eating disorder in older populations leads statistics in deaths caused by anorexia nervosa. This is a change as teen girls had led in this category until recently. Both populations are similar in that refusing food is a way to feel in control. The elderly, many of which are dealing with dementia, refuse food as the last attempt at controlling their life. Eating disorder treatment professionals face new challenges when helping the elderly.