Nutrition for older adults is crucial. Malnutrition can lead to various health concerns, including a weak immune system. The result is an increase in the risk of infections. Poor wound healing. Muscle weakness and decreased bone mass, which can lead to falls and fractures.

What is malnutrition

Malnutrition is a state of nutrients deficiency. Lack of energy, protein, vitamins and minerals causes measurable adverse effects on body composition, function or clinical outcome.

Malnutrition and Older Adults

While many people seem to focus their diets solely on trying to lose weight and prevent disease, the nutrition for older adults’ problems can be quite different.

For many elders, it is not a matter of eating too much, but rather a matter of not getting enough. And this all comes at a time of life when getting adequate nutrition—including protein, fibre, hydration, vitamins, and minerals—may be more difficult.

Contributing factors

Adding to the problem is that many older people deal with a variety of chronic medical conditions. These conditions can contribute to poor nutrition and can also be worsened by poor nutrition.

That is why an adequate diet for older adults is crucial.

Ageing is a natural process. According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is defined as ‘the process of growing old’. At a biological level, ageing is associated with the gradual accumulation of a wide variety of molecular and cellular damage.

It brings about numerous complex changes; many of which we cannot prevent, but can manage in terms of progression. Over time, damage from ageing leads to a gradual decrease in our physiological make-up, an increased risk of disease, and a general decline in an individual’s capacity. However, our nutritionist can help you with a tailored diet.