Malnutrition risk and perception on dietary practices among elderly living in agricultural settlements

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims to identify malnutrition risk and perception of malnourished and at-risk elderly individuals on their dietary practices. Design/methodology/approach: In Phase 1, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 413 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above in agricultural settlements in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia. Malnutrition risk was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF). In Phase 2, indepth semi-structured interviews were conducted among 21 elderly individuals identified in Phase 1. The interviews ceased when data saturation was achieved. Findings: 25.7 per cent (n = 106) of elderly individuals were identified as malnourished and at-risk (MNA-SF score = <12). Age, smoking, income and living status were significantly associated with malnutrition risk (p < 0.05). Thematic analysis revealed four themes that represent elderly individuals' perception on their dietary practices: the impact of aging on dietary intake; food restriction according to health condition; poor dietary intake due to feeling of loneliness; and perceived benefits of foods for health. Research limitations/implications: Strategies from multidisciplinary healthcare professionals to eliminate improper dietary practice are required for the maintenance of health, functional independence and quality of life among the elderly. Originality/value: This research is at the forefront in reporting the elderly individuals' perception on dietary practice in agricultural settlement. Attention to individual's health issues and the associated factors that may influence their dietary practices is essential to provide appropriate interventions to achieve optimum nutritional status and healthy aging.

Dietary intake is compromised among elderly living in agricultural settlements

“…However, it should be noted that our findings demonstrated a deficiency in key nutrients among the elderly in the agricultural settlement, which showed a need for appropriate nutrition education. Moreover, a recent study among this population in the same setting demonstrated the existence of malnutrition risk (Zainudin et al, 2018). Maintenance of good nutritional status while living independently at home should be targeted while promoting longevity along with the quality of life.…”

Strength and mobility of older adults living in urban, rural, and FELDA settlements in Malaysia

“…15 In addition, studies conducted in Malaysia have found that older adults residing in agricultural settlements are at malnutrition risk. 16,17 The results of the current study show that mean body mass index was the highest for older men and women living in FELDA settlements, indicating that being overweight or obese may increase the risk of sarcopenia and the resulting vulnerability to diseases and physical decline.…”

Development of nutrition screening guideline content for use by healthcare staffs in older adults in health clinic setting: A scoping review

“…Previous studies have shown percentages of 27% to 38% of older adults at risk and malnourished in community setting (Kaiser et al, 2010;Volkert et al, 2019;Winter et al, 2013). Meanwhile, in Malaysia's community setting, the prevalence of malnutrition is between 34.0% to 48.9% and 42.2% to 66.6% of male and female older adults, respectively, having risk of malnutrition (Muhamad et al, 2019;Suzana et al, 2013;Zainudin et al, 2019). If malnutrition is left untreated, it will lead to undesirable health effects.…”