Evaluation of malnutrition among elderly people above 75 years of age

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition, which is a very communal disorder in the aged people, is recognized to rise their susceptibility to negative health events. Objective: This study was held to evaluate the occurrence of malnutrition in the population of the community aged 75 years or higher. Methods: Practitioners (GPs) used a short the Mini Nutrition Assessment (MNA-SF) version as a tool of screening to study the status of nutrition among the elderly (1,039 people). Using biochemical parameters; malnutrition status was established. People at jeopardy of malnutrition (n = 22) have recommended a modified diet. Results: A total of 821 participants were included with the average age at 82±5.7. Average MNA-SF score was 12.3±2.0 in which over 75% (n=621) of the elderly people had the score of 12 or greater. MNA-SF confirmed that 21% of older people at danger of malnutrition and biochemical tests had a 3.5% incidence of malnutrition. The counselling regarding the diet enhanced the biochemical parameters and MNA-SF score. Conclusion: MNA-SF is a simple tool used to assess Malnutrition which will be helpful to diagnose at the initial phase and effectively cured by the attending physician.