THE NUTRITIONAL STATUS, SARCOPENIA AND NUTRITIONAL CARE NEEDS IN THE ELDERLY AT A WARD IN HANOI, 2023

Lien Hanh NGUYEN1,, Nguyet Thu NGHEM1, Thu Thuy NGUYEN1, Thi Huong Lan BUI1
1 National Institute of Nutrition, Vietnam

Main Article Content

Abstract

Aims: To assess nutritional status, screen for sarcopenia using the SARC-F score, and evaluate the nutritional care needs of the elderly in a ward in Hanoi, 2023.


Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 150 subjects in Trung Hoa ward, Cau Giay district, Hanoi from October to November 2023 with a random sampling method. Subjects underwent anthropometric measurements, nutritional assessment using the MNA (Mini Nutritional Assessment) tool, sarcopenia screening using the SARC-F tool, interviews regarding factors related to nutritional care needs of the elderly.


Results: The average age of participants was 69.5±7.5 years. The prevalence of malnutrition risk and malnutrition among the elderly according to the MNA assessment was 35.3%, and 4% according to BMI. The prevalence of sarcopenia risk was 11.3%. Regarding issues related to nutritional care needs: 14.7% of subjects reported a lack of appetite. Constipation affected 26% of the participants, and dry mouth was experienced by 40% and 54% felt the need to add more milk to their daily diet. 24% required their food to be chopped and cooked softer. 50% wanted an additional snack daily.


Conclusion: Malnutrition and sarcopenia are common issues among the elderly. Common issues such as loss of appetite, constipation, and dry mouth are frequently encountered among the elderly.


 

Article Details

References

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