Assessment of Nutritional Status and Associated Risk Factors in Older People

Background and purpose: Malnutrition is one of the greatest threats to health and well-being in older people that reduces their quality of life. This research aimed at studying the prevalence of malnutrition and the consequences of poor nutrition in older people in Babol, and its suburbs. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study, 520 people aged 60 or over were randomly selected in Babol, north of Iran, 2017. Demographic characteristics, health conditions, and factors affecting malnutrition were recorded and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool was used to assess the nutritional status. Data were analyzed by Chi-square and independent t-test in SPSS. Results: The mean ages of male (n=261) and female (n=259) participants were 69.2 ± 7.7 years and 69.1 ± 7.2 years, respectively. Among the subjects, 9 (1.7%) were malnourished and 145 (27.9%) were at risk of malnutrition. These conditions were significantly worse in women, older people living in city, retired people, those with low income, and older people living alone or with their children (P=0.005). Malnutrition was significantly associated with appetite loss, dry mouth, nausea, pain, early aging, constipation, vomiting, smell and taste disorders, oral ulcers, and swallowing and dental problems (P=0.001). Conclusion: Large numbers of older people are at risk of malnutrition, but a suitable job and sufficient income play a pivotal role in having a good nutritional condition, so, authorities should focus more on this issue.