Aging 3 Flashcards
(21 cards)
Why is BMI not a good indicator of health in older adults?
BMI does not account for body composition changes with aging. In older adults, higher BMIs (27–28 for males, 31–32 for females) are actually associated with better outcomes and functional capacity than what is considered “normal” by WHO standards.
What BMI ranges are associated with increased health risks in older adults?
Older adults with BMIs below 25 or above 35 are at greater risk for reduced functional capacity and adverse health outcomes.
What is the purpose of the SCREEN tool, and who is it designed for?
SCREEN (Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition) is an early-intervention nutrition screening tool designed for community-dwelling older adults to identify risk of malnutrition or nutritional inadequacies.
What kinds of topics does the SCREEN tool assess?
SCREEN looks at recent weight loss, energy levels, nutrient composition of the diet, food preparation, and access to food or cooking facilities.
How does the SCREEN tool vary based on setting or time available?
There are different versions (SCREEN-3 to SCREEN-14), allowing practitioners to choose based on how much time they have with a client.
What are typical next steps when an older adult is identified as high risk via SCREEN?
Referrals may be made to health professionals (dietitian, physician, physiotherapist), meal programs, financial aid, or community resources like healthy eating guides.
What is the MNA, and what population is it designed for?
The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a validated screening and assessment tool for older adults aged 65+ to identify malnutrition or risk of malnutrition.
What specific areas does the MNA tool evaluate?
MNA assesses dietary intake, recent weight loss, mobility, neuropsychological issues (e.g., dementia), and BMI.
What 8 components should be included in a nutritional assessment for an older adult?
Key components include chronic diseases, medications, dietary habits, supplement use, nutrient bloodwork, anthropometrics, food security, and physical activity levels.
. What strategies support nutrient intake in older adults living alone?
Meal prepping when energy is high, using community kitchens, cooking in batches, and utilizing frozen/pre-cut vegetables can help improve intake.
When might modified food textures be required for older adults?
Modified textures may be necessary when chewing or swallowing difficulties arise, especially in cases of cognitive decline, oral health issues, or dysphagia.
What is ‘pocketing’ and how is it managed nutritionally?
Pocketing is when food remains in the cheeks or mouth after chewing, often due to cognitive impairment. Switching to minced or pureed foods and monitoring intake can help.
Why might thin fluids be difficult for older adults with swallowing issues?
Thin fluids may not trigger the swallowing reflex effectively, increasing the risk of aspiration. Thickened fluids or sips of water in specific patterns may be recommended.
How is nutrition linked to longevity in older adults?
Malnutrition and food insecurity are associated with increased mortality, while proper nutrition supports healthy aging and longer life expectancy.
How does telomere length relate to aging and nutrition?
Telomere shortening is associated with aging. Diets like the Mediterranean diet have been linked to longer telomeres, potentially slowing cellular aging.
What is the CALERIE trial and what were its findings?
The CALERIE trial found that a 25% calorie restriction over 2 years modestly slowed biological aging in adults, but the approach carries risks such as nutrient deficiencies.
What are 3 potential downsides of long-term calorie restriction in older adults?
It can lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients, loss of lean muscle and bone mass, and challenges in maintaining functional strength.
What 7 non-nutritional factors influence healthy aging?
Genetics, age-related changes, chronic diseases, housing, assistive technology, transportation, and social networks all play a role in healthy aging.
What is the goal of nutrition recommendations for older adults?
To ensure older adults have access to nutritionally adequate, culturally appropriate, and personally acceptable food that supports independence and health.
. Which 6 nutrients are especially important for older adults to maintain?
Energy, protein, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and fiber are essential to support lean mass, bone health, and metabolic function.
Why is it important to focus on both nutrient density and food acceptability in older adults?
Because aging adults often have reduced energy needs, meals must be nutrient-dense. However, food must also be enjoyable, easy to prepare, and suited to texture and taste preferences to support consistent intake.
