Getting adequate nutrition may be trickier for older adults. Because seniors tend to be less active than younger people, they need fewer calories. Yet research shows that older people may need more of certain key nutrients, such as B vitamins and calcium.

Unfortunately, nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition can persist for a long time before they show up in physical signs or symptoms. Still, there are a few indicators you -- and your doctor -- can be alert to.

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Fatigue is a common side effect of iron deficiency, which can lead to anemia, or low red blood cell levels. Anemia can also show up as abnormal pallor. But remember: Other conditions can cause excessive fatigue, as well, including serious illnesses like heart disease, depression, or thyroid disease.

Its wise to alert your doctor if you feel abnormally weak or tired. Your doctor may prescribe supplements if you have anemia.

Hair, which is made up mostly of protein, serves as a useful diagnostic marker for nutritional deficiencies.

When an older persons hair looks like a fright wig -- brittle, dry, sparse -- its often a sign that their diet is inadequate, says Kathleen Niedert, RD, director of clinical nutrition and dining services for Western Home Communities in Iowa and a leading advisor to the American Dietetic Association.

Brittle hair can signal a deficit of essential fatty acids, protein, iron and other nutrients. Some hair loss is usual with age, of course. But if hair begins to fall out at an unusual rate, nutrient deficiencies may be the cause. Once your doctor identifies the deficiencies, you can treat them with nutrient-rich foods and supplements.

Read more:
Nutrition and Aging: 7 Signs of Inadequate Nutrition