Nutrient content of served food, nutrient intake and nutritional status of residents with dementia in a finnish nursing home

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the energy and nutrient content of the served food, the actual energy and nutrient intake and the nutritional status of elderly residents in a nursing home.

Methods: The nutritional status of 23 individuals aged 69 to 89 years with dementia were assessed by Mini Nutrition Assessment -test (MNA). The nutrient content of the served food was calculated from all meals during a 14-day period. Food consumption was determined by precise weighing method.

Results: Of 23 residents, 20 were at risk of malnutrition and three were malnourished according to MNA. The mean energy content of the served food was 1665 kcal (7.4 MJ) per day. The amount of vitamin D in served food was too little and the amounts of vitamin E, folic acid, and fibre were somewhat lower than the recommended level. The amounts of other nutrients were sufficient or substantial. However, the true mean intake of energy in the whole group was only 1205 kcal (5.4 MJ) per day. The mean protein intake was 59 g. Intakes of vitamin D, E, and folic acid were clearly less than recommended whereas intakes of calcium, magnesium and zinc were as recommended.

Conclusions: It may be possible to get enough energy and most nutrients from the served food, but many elderly nursing home residents did not eat enough. It may be helpful to individually assess, assist and monitor those residents who eat very little in a variety of ways to promote their quality of life.