Assessment of Elderly's Nutritional Status in Geriatric Homes at Al-Furat Al-Awusat Governorates
August 2016
in “
kufa journal for nursing sciences
”
TLDR Many elderly in geriatric homes are overweight and show signs of nutritional deficiency, needing better nutrition and education.
The study assessed the nutritional status of 120 elderly individuals aged 65 and above in geriatric homes in Al-Furat Al-Awusat governorates. It found that a significant portion of the participants, particularly those aged 76-80, were overweight based on BMI and MUAC measurements. Most participants did not use dentures, were non-smokers, and were on medication. Common signs of nutritional deficiency included easy hair loss and bleaching nails, with many not regularly consuming vitamins and minerals. The study recommended implementing a nutritional system for elderly residents, conducting routine nutritional assessments, and providing nutritional education and supervision to improve their dietary habits.