Dietitians regularly work with clients who are either at risk of or are malnourished. Malnutrition occurs when the body’s nutritional needs are not met. This can occur when people don’t eat enough, aren’t eating the right types of food or their body is not absorbing the nutrients as it normally should. Older people are most at risk of malnutrition and research suggests around 50% of older Australians in aged care and in the community are either at risk of malnutrition or are malnourished.
Malnutrition can cause poor health and lead to reduced quality of life. Older people with malnutrition have a higher risk of falls, infection and pressure wounds. They may take a longer time to recover from illness or injury and can need more help with day-to-day tasks. They are also more vulnerable to disease and being admitted to hospital.
What are the signs and symptoms of Malnutrition?
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- muscle wasting
- hair loss
- pale skin
- fatigue or mental confusion
- poor wound healing
Who is most at risk of Malnutrition?
Some people are particularly at risk of malnutrition due to their illness or symptoms or other factors. These may include people with:
- a poor appetite and / or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g. nausea or constipation)
- illnesses that increase nutritional needs (e.g. kidney failure or cancer)
- illnesses that lead to malabsorption (e.g. Crohn’s disease)
- eating disorders
- dental problems
- dementia or psychological difficulties
- impacts of certain medications
- Social isolation or financial, shopping or cooking difficulties.
How is malnutrition treated?
Dietitians offer practical and personalised dietary advice to help clients meet their nutritional needs and improve their health. Where food alone cannot meet the nutritional needs, a dietitian may recommend supplements to boost intake. Managing and treating malnutrition requires careful monitoring to ensure that strategies are working and nutritional status is improving.
If you or someone you know has concerns about being malnourished or at risk of being malnourished, please speak with your knowledgable HomeServe Care Partner who can refer to a Dietician for an assessment in your home!
