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Health Status of Elderly, with Special Reference to Nutritional Status: A Cross Sectional Study.

Health Status of Elderly, with Special Reference to Nutritional Status: A Cross Sectional Study.

Authors :
Shastri, Amrita
Jadhao, Ashok Rupraoji
Agrawal, Sanjay
Source :
Indian Journal of Basic & Applied Medical Research; Dec2023, Vol. 13 Issue 1, p45-55, 11p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Introduction: India confronts health and malnutrition challenge for its 8.6% of its elderly population. Malnutrition is complex condition influenced by multiple factors such as sociodemographic, somatic, dietary and lifestyle characteristics. Objectives: To study the health status, sociodemographic factors, nutritional status using MNA scale and associated riskfactors among elderly attending RHTC OPD affiliated to tertiary health care centre of central India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during December 2022 to September 2023 among 300 elderly of ≥60 years of age. A structured questionnaire was used to record the sociodemographic and relevant personal details. MNA scale was used to assess malnutrition. Data was entered in MS Excel window version 11 and analysed by using Open-Epi Software. Association between two categorical variables was analysed by using Chi-square test. Results: MNA Scale showed 22.67% were malnourished and 39.00% were At-Risk of malnutrition. Among 300 elderly, 53% were from 60- 70 years of age group and 52% were females. Being older of age ≥70 years (OR= 3.92), Female (OR= 2.04), widow/ widower (OR= 3.21), Illiterate (OR=5.88), living Alone (OR= 3.21) within broken family (OR= 3.21) were significantly associated with malnutrition (p <0.05). Lower socioeconomic status (OR= 2.73), financial dependency (OR= 4.23) and presence of Morbidity (OR= 2.35) were also associated with malnutrition (p <0.05). Conclusion: The nutritional status of the elderly was found to be significantly poor in this study. Lack of awareness regarding nutritional status necessitates the implementation of screening, early diagnosis and treatment at primary health care level to promote healthy aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2250284X
Volume :
13
Issue :
1
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Indian Journal of Basic & Applied Medical Research
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
175132758
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.36855/IJBAMR/2022/000215.65060