Promoting nutrition in older people in nursing and residential homes

Abstract

Malnutrition and dehydration are serious and common problems among older people in nursing and residential care homes. The situation is exacerbated because staff may not be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of malnutrition and dehydration and hence opportunities for early intervention are missed. A nutrition assessment should form part of the admission process to identify whether an individual has, or is at risk of developing, malnutrition and dehydration. This article suggests key questions that should be asked to assist this process. The individual and organizational risk factors that affect nutrition and health status are discussed, and practical suggestions given to help address any problems recognized. The causes and consequences of dehydration are explained and practices that place an individual at risk of dehydration considered. Suggestions are given to help identify when a person is not drinking sufficiently so that early rapid intervention can be initiated. Helping an older person to eat and drink independently is a practical activity that is often undervalued. Its importance needs to be recognized in all nursing and residential care settings.