What should be the focus of nutrition assessment in older adults?

The focus of nutrition assessment in older adults should primarily be on identifying malnutrition or the risk of nutrient deficiencies. As individuals age, they experience various physiological changes, including alterations in appetite, digestion, and metabolism, which can lead to increased susceptibility to malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies. Assessing for these issues is crucial for developing tailored interventions that promote health and well-being in older adults.

A comprehensive nutrition assessment may evaluate dietary intake, weight changes, physical health, and social factors that contribute to nutritional status. By emphasizing the identification of malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies, healthcare providers can implement strategies to address these concerns, potentially improving overall health outcomes in this population. This proactive approach is essential, especially considering that undetected malnutrition can result in adverse effects such as increased morbidity, impaired recovery from illnesses, and decreased quality of life.