How Does Poor Appetite Affect Nutrition in Community-Dwelling Elderly People?

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to assess the impact of lifestyle habits and nutritional status on elderly individuals with varying appetite levels in the community. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 6,094 elderly individuals aged ≥65 years living in the community. A questionnaire designed to assess general characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and 24-hour dietary recalls of the individuals was administered through face-to-face interviews. Results: Elderly individuals with good appetite had significantly higher daily intake of calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and folate compared to those with poor appetite, meeting their requirements at significantly higher rates (p<0.001). Except for legumes, nuts and seeds, and sugar consumption, the consumption amounts of all other foods were significantly higher in elderly individuals with good appetite compared to those with poor appetite (p<0.001). Furthermore, those with good appetite exhibited higher median values of body mass index, upper mid-arm circumference, and calf circumference compared to those with poor appetite (p<0.001), with a greater proportion meeting the recommended cut-off value (p<0.005). Involuntary weight loss of >5% in the last six months is significantly lower in elderly individuals with good appetite compared to those with moderate and poor appetite (p<0.001). Conclusion: Overall, the study underscores the influence of appetite status on food consumption, nutrient intake, and anthropometric measurements in the elderly. Identifying and addressing decreased appetite in aging individuals is crucial for designing effective dietary interventions to enhance their nutritional and health outcomes.

Keywords

• appetite
• food consumption
• nutrient intake
• anthropometric measurements
• elderly

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