Malnutrition in the elderly residing in long-term care facilities: A cross sectional survey using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA®) screening tool

14Citations
Citations of this article
122Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine and compare the nutritional status of the elderly in two long-term care facilities - one situated in a higher socio-economic area and one in a lower socio-economic area. Design: A cross-sectional study was undertaken. Setting: The study setting comprised two urban areas of Bloemfontein, Free State province, South Africa. Subjects: Sixty-two elderly residing in a long-term care facility from both the higher and lower socio-economic areas agreed to participate and met inclusion criteria (N = 124). Outcome measures: The nutritional status of participants was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA®) questionnaire. Indicators of nutritional status that were assessed as part of the validated MNA® included anthropometry, a global assessment, dietary assessment and subjective assessment. A total score of 24 or more points was interpreted as being wellnourished. Results: Malnutrition was identified in 3.2% of participants from the long-term care facility situated in the higher socio-economic area and 11.3% from the lower socio-economic area. A significantly higher percentage of participants from the lower socioeconomic area were found to be at risk of malnutrition than those from the higher socio-economic area (74.2% vs. 37.1%) [95% CI 19.8%; 51.4%]. Participants from the higher socio-economic area consumed significantly more fluid and protein rich foods than their counterparts. Conclusion: Elderly participants from the lower socio-economic area were more likely to have a poor nutritional status and be at risk of malnutrition. The findings highlight the need to focus on screening for malnutrition in order to promote health and prevent the possible development of nutrition-related co-morbidities in the elderly.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Robb, L., Walsh, C. M., Nel, M., Nel, A., Odendaal, H., & van Aardt, R. (2017). Malnutrition in the elderly residing in long-term care facilities: A cross sectional survey using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA®) screening tool. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 30(2), 34–40. https://doi.org/10.1080/16070658.2016.1248062

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free