| Abstract [eng] |
Aim of the study: To examine the prevalence, risk factors, assessment tools, and consequences of malnutrition in older adults, and to evaluate the effectiveness of current screening instruments and interventions through a comprehensive literature review. Objectives: 1. To define malnutrition in the context of aging. 2. To analyse global and regional prevalence trends and future projections. 3. To identify physiological, psychological, and socio-environmental risk factors. 4. To evaluate the validity and applicability of malnutrition screening tools. 5. To assess health outcomes and intervention strategies. Methodology: A structured literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed academic sources and international databases. Focus was placed on four key malnutrition screening tools—Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF), Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002), and the DETERMINE Checklist—examining their strengths, limitations, and relevance across clinical and community settings. Conclusions: Malnutrition in older adults is a pressing global health concern, especially in hospitalized and institutionalized populations. It results from the interplay of physiological aging, chronic diseases, cognitive decline, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Tools like MNA-SF and MUST are broadly effective, with MNA-SF offering enhanced sensitivity for geriatric use. Malnutrition is associated with heightened morbidity, mortality, functional decline, and healthcare costs. Effective interventions include individualized nutrition plans, oral supplementation, and multidisciplinary care. Public health strategies must prioritize systematic screening, expanded access to care, and nutritional education to address malnutrition in aging populations. |
