Management of malnutrition in the elderly and the appropriate use of commercially manufactured oral nutritional supplements.
The risk of protein calorie malnutrition among the community dwelling elderly is high. If undetected or untreated malnutrition can raise risks of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, improving screening, assessment and treatment of malnutrition, particularly in ambulatory settings that serve the elderly is imperative. The aim of this paper is to briefly detail the diagnostic criteria for protein calorie malnutrition and discuss the special considerations necessary in evaluating risk and causes of malnutrition in the elderly. We conclude with a review of current management options and discuss the cost effectiveness and potential inappropriate use of commercially manufactured oral nutritional supplements.
Johnsen
C
C
Ambulatory Care Dietitian, Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
East
J M
JM
Glassman
P
P
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D001827:Body Height; D001835:Body Weight; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005526:Food, Formulated; D006801:Humans; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000178:diet therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012709:Serum Albumin / Q000032:analysis
D012709:Serum Albumin