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

OBJECTIVE To present food refusal in old age as a means of attempting to control the outcome of intergenerational family conflicts. METHOD Two cases are described. RESULTS Food refusal does not necessarily arise in the context 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 anorectic pattern of behavior. It may be a separate psychobehavioral entity in old age. Behavioral methods may help to encourage a resolution by setting clear limits and encouraging patients to share responsibility in decision making.