Are fat free mass, fat mass and meal frequency associated with malnutrition in institutionalized elderly: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aims: Malnutrition is a major concern that increases morbidity and mortality in older adults living in nursing homes. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status, body composition, and dietary intake of older adults in nursing homes while identifying the risk factors contributing to malnutrition. Methods: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study conducted with 150 older adults from two nursing homes. Malnutrition was assessed using the full version of mini nutritional assessment (MNA). Data were collected by face to face interview and anthropometric measurements and body composition analysis were performed. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U test, independent sample T test, Chi-square test, Spearman correlation coefficient and logistic regression. Results: Among participants 81.80% were male. Mean age was 75.13±7.35 years. The prevalence of malnutrition/malnutrition risk was 14.7%. While energy, macronutrient intake, and nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) were similar between participants with good nutritional status and malnutrition/malnutrition risk, vitamin E intake was significantly higher in older adults with good nutritional status (p=0.009). A higher number of chronic diseases significantly increased the risk of malnutrition (OR=2.083, p=0.038, OR:2.065, p=0.027). However, consuming more meals per day (OR=0.086 p<0.001, OR:0.130, p=0.001), higher fat mass (OR=0.911, p=0.030) and a greater Fat Free Mass Index (OR 0.697, p=0.009) were found to be protective. Conclusion: Assessing nutritional status, determining food consumption and identifying the factors contributing to malnutrition are crucial for the early prevention and management of malnutrition in older adults. Longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes are needed to develop effective strategies for improving the nutritional well-being of nursing home residents.