Seniors' Appetite: Vibrant Opportunities for Revitalization (SAVOR)

Appetite decline in older adults, or anorexia of aging, is a prevalent geriatric syndrome associated with decreased quality of life, increased risk of malnutrition, and accelerated decline in health. While current nutritional guidelines often emphasize increasing nutrient density, these strategies often fail to address the root causes of diminished appetite. Emerging research highlights the critical role of age-related physiological changes, particularly dysregulation of the gut-brain axis, altered sensory perception, and hormonal imbalances, in suppressing appetite. Notably, existing evidence is largely derived from Western populations, which may not fully reflect the influence of cultural and lifestyle factors on appetite in Asian seniors. This leaves a significant gap in understanding and addressing appetite loss within this specific demographic. This study aims to address this gap by comprehensively investigating the physiological mechanisms underlying appetite regulation in Asian seniors, to identify key determinants that differentiate individuals with healthy appetites from those experiencing a decline. By assessing the relationships between oro-sensory function, gastric dynamics, neuro-hormonal regulation, gut microbiome composition and subjective appetite, this study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the biological pathways driving appetite differences in this population. The findings of this study will lay the groundwork for future research aimed at developing culturally sensitive and effective interventions that can restore appetite, improve nutritional status, and ultimately enhance the health span and quality of life for older adults in Singapore and beyond. Furthermore, this work has the potential to drive innovation in the food and nutrition industry, leading to the development of tailored products and dietary strategies that effectively address the unique nutritional needs of aging populations, ultimately impacting public health recommendations and policies related to senior nutrition.