NUTRITIONAL STATUS IN OLDER ADULTS IN COMMUNITIES: PREVALENCE AND PREDICTOR FACTORS

Abstract

Background:The older adults are an age group that is vulnerable to nutrition. There are several prevalent clinical diseases related to old age-related dietary elements that are frequently neglected. Malnutrition among the elderly is increasing globally, as is overweight or obesity. Purpose:This study aims to understand the prevalence and predictors of nutritional status factors in the elderly in Indonesia.Method:A cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational research design was used in this study. Purposive sampling was utilized to collect 242 samples from the Community Health Center Lameuru in South Konawe. A demographic data was utilized to collect data, and a Mini Nutritional Assessment to assess elderly nutritional status.Results:This research shows the prevalence of elderly people with malnutrition (5.0%) and the risk of malnutrition is (29.3%). Logistic Regression shows that a history of using herbal medicines, having comorbid diseases, insufficient food intake and minimal mobility or physical activity are risk factors for the nutritional status of the elderly.Conclusion:Malnutrition or the risk of malnutrition is still modest, but it must remain a concern for numerous sectors in order to produce senior people who are healthy, independent, and efficient.

Keyword:Older Adults, Prevalece, Malnutrition, Nutritional Status