Nutritional status and functional ability of the elderly aged 60 to 90 years in the Mpigi district of central Uganda

Abstract

Objectives: This study assessed the nutritional status of the elderly and their functional ability because poor nutritional status in the elderly is associated with poor functional ability.

Methods: Anthropometric measurements, demographic and socioeconomic data, dietary assessment by a food frequency list, and activities of daily life data were collected cross sectionally in 2002. Participants (n = 100) were randomly selected and the response rate was 95.2%.

Results: The overall prevalences of undernutrition were 33.3% based on body mass index (<18.5 kg/m(2)) and 52% based on mid-upper arm circumference (<24 cm). There was a large, significant difference between prevalences of malnutrition by sex: 68% of women were undernourished (body mass index < 18.5 kg/m(2)) compared with 32.4% of men. Dietary assessment showed that intake of fish, cereals, vegetables, tubers, and legumes was moderate (three to six times/wk). Evaluation of the ability of elderly people to perform basic activities of daily living showed that 33% of subjects were independent in all activities of daily living, except for mobility and feeding. The relation between body mass index and variables associated with functional ability were significant with regard to mobility, continence, and feeding (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study found that a large percentage of older men and women are malnourished. This influenced their daily activities, especially mobility and feeding. The elderly need to be incorporated into health programs and policy.