A campaign has been launched to tackle malnutrition among pensioners.
Derbyshire County Council wants to arrange presentations for groups whose members would find it useful to get advice on how to spot the signs of malnutrition in older people and how to tackle the problem.
The aim is to help people spot the symptoms in themselves, elderly friends, relatives and other older people they come into contact with.
A booklet which talks people through the steps they should take if someone elderly they know is losing weight is also available.
It is available from Derbyshire libraries and can be downloaded at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/eatwell.
Councillor Carol Hart, cabinet member for public health, said: “Malnutrition and dehydration cause serious health problems, including infections like colds and flu, depression and falls.”
There are thought to be about three million pensioners in the UK who are malnourished.
The council wants to encourage them to eat more snacks and milky drinks. Those who are underweight should use full-fat milk and yogurt, add butter, jam, honey and sugar (unless diabetic) to their meals and always eat puddings.
To book a group talk, call Lynwen Davison on 01629 538215 or email lynwen.davison@derbyshire.gov.uk.