Determinants of Malnutrition among Elderly Women Living in Institutional Care

BACKGROUND: Healthy aging and well-being are largely influenced by nutrition. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the risk of malnutrition in elderly women residing in institutional care and its contributing factors. METHODOLOGY: One hundred institutionalized women aged 60 years and above were screened for malnutrition using Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool. Details on sociodemographic profile, physical activity, medical conditions, and food habits were gathered through researcher administered survey method. RESULTS: The study participants had an average height of 149.70 cm (±7.31), weight of 50.72 kg (±9.11), body mass index of 22.77 kg/m(2) (±4.68), body fat percentage of 31.30% (±8.99), mid-arm circumference of 27.36 cm (±7.84), calf circumference of 30.11 cm (±7.51), MNA score of 10.42 (±4.06), and hand grip strength score of 18.69 kg/lbs (±3.80). Upon analyzing the MNA scores, it was found that 9% of elderly women were well nourished, 62% were at risk of malnutrition, and 29% were malnourished. A significant difference was observed in the mean MNA scores (P < 0.05). Age, education level, body fat percentage, appetite, and dental problems were significantly associated with malnutrition (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Geriatric residents in old-age homes require adequate nutrition to maintain health. This can be achieved by providing individualized meal planning, reducing barriers to eating, and incorporating nutrient-dense foods.