25th July 2023

Overview

Malnutrition is a multi-system disorder and one of the most common nutritional challenges among the UK geriatric population. Common symptoms include low energy, unintentional weight loss, and perioral and nail lesions. Consider a biopsychosocial approach for the causes of malnutrition. These include conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease, dysphagia, poor oral health, severe learning disabilities or mental health problems, frailty, immobility, and catabolic states. Social factors include poor diet, isolation and the inability to do their own food shopping. Complications include frequent falls, chest infections secondary to muscle weakness, low mood and anxiety, heart failure, worsening underlying chronic conditions and immunosuppression. This can lead to loss of independence, prolonged hospital stays, and in severe cases, death.