Aspects of food refusal in the elderly: The "hunger strike"

Objective: To present food refusal in old age as a means of attempting to c ontrol the outcome of intergenerational Family conflicts. Method: Two cases are described. Results: Food refusal does not necessarily arise in the con cert of a classical eating disorder but may represent a form of protest, or hunger strike. Discussion: Food refusal is seen as distinct from a pure an orectic pattern of behavior. It may be a separate psychobehavioral entity i n old age. Behavioral methods may help to encourage a resolution by setting clear limits and encouraging patients to share responsibility in decision making. (C) 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.