Undernutrition or malnutrition
is a term which describes the various health conditions caused by the body not
receiving enough energy (food) or nutrients. Undernutrition can affect people
in a variety of ways; they can become too short for their age (stunted);
dangerously thin (wasted); and deficient in vitamins and minerals
(micronutrient deficient).
Our aim is to end hunger, achieve food security and
improved nutrition in our elderly by recognising why this occurs and retraining
staff to understand it better and deal with it far more appropriately than they
currently do.
Despite being easily preventable, undernutrition claims the lives of millions
each year, making it the single largest killer worldwide. This is a very
concentrated problem, with only 24 countries accounting for 80% of all cases of
undernutrition, and the largest killer of our elderly and vulnerable in Care.
Many older
adults are at risk for developing malnutrition, the lack of
adequate nutrition to maintain health. The main cause of malnutrition in
older adult is inadequate food and nutrient intake. A poor appetite or
problems with chewing and swallowing may lead to lower food intake.
Good nutrition is critical to
overall health and well-being — yet many older adults are at risk of inadequate
nutrition and it is preventable.
Problems caused by malnutrition
·
Malnutrition
in older adults can lead to various health concerns, including:
·
A weak
immune system, which increases the risk of infections
·
Poor
wound healing
·
Muscle
weakness, which can lead to falls and fractures
In addition, malnutrition can lead to further disinterest in eating or
lack of appetite — which only makes the problem worse.
Causes of Malnutrition
The causes of malnutrition might seem straightforward — too little food
or a diet lacking in nutrients. In reality, though, malnutrition is often
caused by a combination of physical, social and psychological issues. For
example:
Health concerns. Older adults often have health problems,
such as dementia or dental issues, that can lead to decreased appetite or
trouble eating. Other factors that might play a role include a chronic illness,
use of certain medications, difficulty swallowing or absorbing nutrients, a
recent hospitalization, or a diminished sense of taste or smell.
Restricted diets. Dietary restrictions — such as limits on
salt, fat, protein or sugar — can help manage certain medical conditions, but
might also contribute to inadequate eating.
Limited income. Some older adults might have trouble
affording groceries, especially if they're taking expensive medications.
Reduced social contact. Older adults who eat alone might not enjoy
meals as before, causing them to lose interest in cooking and eating.
Depression. Grief, loneliness, failing health, lack of
mobility and other factors might contribute to depression — causing loss of
appetite.
Alcoholism. Too much alcohol can interfere with the
digestion and absorption of nutrients. Nutrients might also be lacking if
alcohol is substituted for meals
The Signs of Malnutrition
The signs of malnutrition in
older adults can be tough to spot, especially in people who don't seem at risk
— but uncovering problems at the earliest stage can help prevent complications
later.
Medications. Many drugs affect
appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption.
Red flags. In addition to
weight loss, malnutrition can cause poor wound
healing, easy bruising and dental difficulties.
Weight loss. Help monitor his
or her weight at home. You might also watch for other signs of weight loss,
such as changes in how clothing fits.
Eating habits. Spend time during
meals at home, not just on special occasions. If one lives alone, find out who
buys his or her food. If they are in a hospital or long term care facility,
visit during mealtimes.
Making a BIG Difference
Even small dietary changes can
make a big difference in an older adult's health and well-being. For example:
Engage doctors. If the person
is losing weight, work with his or her doctors to identify — and address — any
contributing factors. This might include changing medications that affect
appetite, suspending any diet restrictions until the person is eating more
effectively, and working with a dentist to treat oral pain or chewing problems.
Request screenings for nutrition problems during routine office visits, and ask
about nutritional supplements. You might also ask for a referral to a
registered dietitian.
Encourage the person to eat foods packed with
nutrients. Spread peanut or other nut butters on toast and
crackers, fresh fruits, and raw vegetables. Sprinkle finely chopped nuts or
wheat germ on yogurt, fruit and cereal. Add extra egg whites to scrambled eggs
and omelettes and encourage use of whole milk. Add cheese to sandwiches,
vegetables, soups, rice and noodles
The one chefs forget - Restore life to bland food.
Make a restricted diet more appealing by using lemon juice, herbs and spices.
If loss of taste and smell is a problem, experiment with seasonings and
recipes.
Plan between-meal snacks. A
piece of fruit or cheese, a spoonful of peanut butter, or a fruit smoothie can
provide nutrients and calories.
Make meals social events. Drop
by during mealtime or invite your loved one to your home for occasional meals.
Encourage your loved one to join programs where he or she can eat with others.
I know, in some people this
next part can be difficult, especially when they have become restricted in
movement. Encourage regular physical activity.
Daily exercise — even if it's light — can stimulate appetite and strengthen
bones and muscles.
Consider outside help. If
necessary, hire a home health aide to shop for groceries or prepare meals. Also,
consider Meals on Wheels and other community services, including home visits
from nurses and registered dietitians. Your local Area Agency on Aging or a
county social worker also might be helpful.
And remember the one things
Care Providers don’t want to know - identifying and treating nutrition issues
early can promote good health, independence and increased longevity.
