Malnutrition is defined as a defective or inadequate nutritional state resulting from a deficiency in the intake of protein and/or calories. Without intervention, malnutrition presents as a downward trajectory leading to poor health and significantly decreased quality of life. Malnutrition is a considerable problem in the aged or elderly population in particular.
The first step in managing and/or correcting malnutrition is to gain a thorough understanding of its complex array of underlying determinants. Malnutrition in the elderly is a multidimensional problem which encompasses a complex array of interrelated physical, psychological and social determinants. Social elements are an important but frequently overlooked
factor in the development of malnutrition in the elderly, and it is this topic which this article aims to address.Social isolation - which is often exacerbated by the visual impairment, hearing difficulties and/or decreased mobility associated with ageing - means that many elderly people in our community now live and eat alone. Eating is a social activity, and a lack of social interaction may discourage eating or even promote anorexia in some individuals. Depression is a common result of social isolation, and this can further contribute to a reduction in appetite and food consumption and is directly associated with significant weight loss in many elderly people.
The diminished mobility and/or physical disability often experienced by the
elderly may make shopping for adequate quantities of fresh, nutritious foods challenging. Similarly, physical and/or mental deficits may make the preparation of appropriate meals difficult or impossible in some situations. These problems may lead to elderly people purchasing, preparing and consuming ‘convenience’ foods, which are typically low in essential vitamins and minerals and inadequate to meet the nutritional needs of adults.Finally, the fixed-income economic status of many in our aged population may lead to circumstances of poverty, resulting in a decrease in the variety and quantity of food consumed. Much has been said in recent years of the often dire financial status of pensioners as cost-of-living – particularly of good- quality, fresh local food – undergoes exponential increases. The consumption of large amounts of cheaper, lower-quality foods clearly indicates a risk for the development of micro- and/or macro-nutrient deficiencies and undernourishment or malnutrition.
Undernourishment and/or malnutrition in the aged or elderly population is a considerable problem, however an understanding of underlying social determinants can contribute to the successful management and prevention of this condition.
SEE ALSO Physiological Factors Causing Undernourishment, Malnourishment and Malnutrition in the Elderly: http://expertscolumn.com/content/physiological-factors-causing-undernourishment-malnourishment-and-malnutrition-elderly