As we age, maintaining a healthy diet can become increasingly challenging. However, the repercussions of neglecting proper nutrition can be severe. It’s estimated that a staggering 68% of individuals in aged care facilities are either malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.
So what is malnutrition and how can it be addressed?

What is malnutrition?

Malnutrition occurs when you do not have enough of the right nutrients to meet your body’s needs. Especially common among older adults, it often occurs when people do not have enough food, the food they eat does not have enough nutrients, or they cannot absorb the nutrients from their food.

Symptoms of malnutrition

Many symptoms of malnutrition are simply dismissed as part of the aging process. However, the following symptoms can be a sign of malnourishment:

• Losing weight or muscle: If you are not receiving enough nutrients, your body will start burning muscle in order to function. In some cases, reduced muscle strength can lead to physical performance being compromised.
• Pale skin or wounds that do not heal
• Confusion
• Hair loss
• Falls: The weakened muscle mass caused by malnutrition may increase the risk of falls and reduce the body’s ability to recover.
• Dental problems.
• Reduced energy levels: If you are malnourished, you may not have the desire to do things you normally do.
• Reduced immune system

Why is malnutrition common in older people?

Malnutrition is common among older people for various reasons. These include:

• They may have health problems: Some health problems such as dementia and dental issues can make it harder for older people to eat
• They may have a reduced appetite: Many chronic conditions common in older people, such as kidney and liver disease or congestive heart failure, can lead to a reduced appetite. In addition, loneliness grief and depression can also reduce your appetite.
• They may have difficulty swallowing: Dysphagia, which occurs when a person has difficulty swallowing, is common among older adults.
• They may be on medications that affect their diet

How can malnourishment be addressed?

• Seek help: It is essential that the symptoms of malnutrition are addressed early. If you notice changes in your mobility, weight, or eating habits, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance. Consulting with a dietician can provide you with the necessary support and advice to address malnutrition effectively.
• Change your diet: Older people have much higher protein and energy requirements than younger people. However, they often don’t have as much protein or energy in their diet. To reduce their risk of malnutrition, older people should try to eat foods rich in protein and energy. In some cases, this involves going against dietary advice you have received earlier in your life. For protein, eat red meat, chicken, fish and eggs. For energy, eat full-cream dairy products such as custard and ice cream and pastries and chips.
• Change your eating patterns: A common cause of malnutrition is not eating simply because you aren’t hungry. Instead, try to eat six small meals at the same time each day, regardless of whether or not you are hungry. If required, you can drink nutrient supplement drinks. However, food should always be your first source of nutrition.

Eating well is important at any age. The effects of malnutrition should not simply be dismissed as part of the aging process.

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Article References

Cockburn, P (11 July 2024) ‘Malnutrition a ‘serious problem’ in older Australians, screening needed in aged care, dietitians say’, ABC News, accessed 26 November 2024.

Healthdirect (11 July 2024) ‘Malnutrition’, Healthdirect, accessed 26 November 2024.