Causes of refusal to eat and drink may include physiologic changes associated with aging, mental disorders including dementia and depression, medical, social, and environmental factors.

What do you do if someone refuses to eat?

Consult With a Medical Professional

Loss of appetite and refusal to eat can be serious. It's important to act quickly, and consult with your loved one's care network. Medical professionals may be able to help identify the source of your loved one's troubles and set out a course to help.

What causes a person to refuse to eat?

People may refuse to eat food or may spit it out. This may be because they dislike the food, are trying to communicate something such as the food being too hot, or they are unsure what to do with the food. The person may become angry or agitated or exhibit challenging behaviour during mealtimes.