Prevalence of malnutrition and its associated factors among elderly population in rural Puducherry using mini-nutritional assessment questionnaire

BACKGROUND: Nutritional status of the elderly population has become an important issue but often gets neglected. Both undernutrition and over nutrition are important public health priorities in this vulnerable group. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition and factors associated with it among elderly population in rural Puducherry using mini-nutritional assessment (MNA) questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 279 elderly population between November and December 2016 in four villages of rural Puducherry, India. Information on sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status of the elderlies were collected using validated MNA questionnaire. Body mass index was used to report obesity based on Asia-Pacific guidelines. RESULTS: Among 279 participants, 178 (63.8%) were in the age group of 60–70 years, 190 (68.1%) were females, and 208 (74.6%) had no formal-education. Prevalence of malnutrition among elderly was found to be 17.9% (95% CI: 13.7–22.7) and about 58.8% (95% CI: 52.9–64.4) were at risk of malnutrition which was assessed using MNA questionnaire. Prevalence of obesity was found to be 32.5% (95% CI: 27.3–38.3) and 38.4% had inadequate fruits and vegetables intake. About 250 (89.6%) are living independently according to ADL score. CONCLUSION: Both undernutrition and over nutrition are important health issues to be considered among elderly population in this area. Primary healthcare strengthening to address and prevent this health issue by balanced dietary practices may improve their nutritional status, thereby enhancing their quality of life.