McMaster Optimal Aging Portal
The Bottom Line
When we think about eating disorders, we often picture teenagers or young adults. But these conditions don’t disappear with age, they can persist or even begin later in life, often going unrecognized and untreated.
In fact, up to 20% of women over 60 may experience binge eating disorder (BED). Others may struggle with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), an intense preoccupation with perceived physical flaws that may be invisible to others. Both conditions can cause emotional distress and lead to serious health consequences.
Why it happens
Later life can bring major changes—retirement, physical aging, grief, or identity shifts—that may trigger or worsen disordered eating. Sometimes, a past eating disorder reappears; in other cases, it may develop for the first time. Unfortunately, the signs in older adults are often overlooked or mistaken for normal aging.
Warning signs:
- Eating in secret or avoiding meals with others
- Sudden weight changes
- Preoccupation with appearance or body parts
- Hiding food or feeling guilt after eating
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Mood changes like anxiety or depression
Treatment and support
The good news is eating disorders are treatable at any age. Psychotherapy (especially Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), medication (when appropriate), and support from trained dieticians can all help. Guided self-help tools like apps or workbooks may also be effective.
Eating disorders in older adults are more common than many realize and they deserve attention. If you or someone you love is struggling, don’t wait. Talk to a healthcare provider. With the right support, healing is possible at any stage of life.
