Malnutrition Management in Geriatric Patients

Nutritional Considerations

Malnutrition in older adults is associated with increased rates of infections, pressure ulcers, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality 1
Restrictive diets should be avoided in geriatric patients with malnutrition as they can lead to nutrient deficiencies and worsen nutritional status 2
Energy requirements for malnourished elderly individuals should be approximately 30 kcal/kg body weight per day 3
Protein intake should be increased to 1.2-1.5 g/kg body weight per day to promote muscle protein anabolism and prevent further loss of fat-free mass 3

Small, frequent meals and additional snacks between main meals should be offered to increase total daily intake 3
Oral nutritional supplements providing at least 400 kcal/day including 30g or more of protein/day should be considered when dietary counseling and food fortification are insufficient 3
Combine nutritional interventions with physical activity and exercise to maintain or improve muscle mass and function 3

Monitor blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, as megestrol acetate may affect glycemic control 4