Predictors of dietary intake in a functionally dependent elderly population in the community.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES. The aim of this study was to describe dietary intake and identify predictors of energy and protein intake in a group of high-risk elderly people. METHODS. All elderly persons receiving publicly financed home care services in the area of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, were eligible. Subjects (n = 145) 60 to 94 years of age from three home care programs were interviewed to measure sociodemographic, health, and food-related behavior variables. Three nonconsecutive 24-hour recalls were used to describe usual dietary intake. Independent predictors of energy and protein intake were derived from multiple regression analyses. RESULTS. Very low mean energy intakes were observed in this functionally dependent population. More than 50% of the study subjects did not meet the recommended levels of daily protein intake (0.8 g/kg body weight). Significant independent determinants of intake were burden of disease, stress, poor appetite, and vision. CONCLUSIONS. Results suggest that community-living elderly people with loss of autonomy may have more nutritional problems than healthy elderly individuals. Surveillance of predictors of dietary intake may enable early detection and prevention of nutritional deficits.

Poor nutritional status of older subacute patients predicts clinical outcomes and mortality at 18 months of follow-up

“…34 These two activities of daily living are important determinants of nutritional intake and functional ability in community-dwelling elders. 35 Our data confirm a need for community-based services to prevent further weight loss in older adults that are poorly nourished. Locally, a CONECT (Community & Outpatient Nutrition Extended Care Team), established in 1997, provides outpatient dietetic services, including face-to-face consultations, telephonic support and home visits, to nutritionally at-risk patients for 6 months after hospital discharge.…”

Outcomes related to nutrition screening in community living older adults: A systematic literature review

“…Meanwhile, the Elderly Nutrition Screening (ENS ® ) tool was developed in Canada for older adults (Payette et al, 1995).…”

Content Validation of a Standardized Language Diagnosis by Certified Specialists in Gerontological Nutrition

“…Increased amounts of medication taken are associated with poor nutritional status, and high levels of stress have an independent negative impact on energy intake (25,(37)(38)(39)(40)(41)(42). Modified diets are often prescribed for the older adult, but liberalizing diet therapy based on current nutrition assessment and diagnosis is beneficial (21,(43)(44)(45).…”