Malnutrition in older adults is a serious and underdiagnosed condition. Unlike childhood malnutrition which is often visible, elderly malnutrition frequently occurs in individuals who appear to be a normal weight. The combination of reduced appetite, impaired absorption, polypharmacy, and social isolation makes older adults uniquely vulnerable.
SCREENING: The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is the gold standard screening tool for elderly malnutrition. Key questions: Has food intake declined over the past 3 months? Has body weight decreased? Is mobility impaired? Has the patient experienced psychological stress or acute illness? A score below 17 indicates malnutrition; 17–23.5 indicates risk.
CAUSES: Common causes in African settings include social isolation (especially after spousal bereavement), depression, tooth loss and difficulty chewing, polypharmacy (medications that reduce appetite or nutrient absorption), poverty, and cultural assumptions that elderly people need less food.
INTERVENTION: First-line intervention is oral nutritional support. Identify the specific nutritional gaps through dietary assessment. For protein-energy malnutrition, increase caloric density using whole grain cereals, groundnut paste, avocado, and eggs. Nutri-Win Senior Blend is formulated specifically for easy intake in elderly patients — it can be thickened or thinned as needed, is fortified with calcium and vitamin D, and is gentle on aging digestive systems.
MONITORING: Weigh patients monthly. Monitor for clinical signs: oedema, hair and skin changes, muscle wasting (measure mid-upper arm circumference), wound healing capacity, and immune function. Early intervention prevents hospitalisation and dramatically improves quality of life.