Nutrition and age

Description

For seniors, a needs-based supply of fluids, macro- and micronutrients is necessary to prevent or treat serious health problems. In addition to carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables also provide fluids, vitamins, nutrients and phytochemicals. As they are relatively low in calories, they also form the basis of a healthy diet for older people. Seniors should eat at least 3 portions of vegetables and 2 portions of fruit a day. Supplementation with vitamins and minerals cannot replace the effects of phytochemicals and fiber.

If food intake is inadequate, the supply of nutrients in the form of sip or tube feeds is an alternative way of ensuring the supply of nutrients in addition to oral intake. By maintaining or restoring mobility, cognition and self-care, healthy nutrition supports the quality of life of older people and should always be seen as an important part of a comprehensive medical-geriatric concept.

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Learning objectives

After you have completed this topic...

• know how energy, nutrient and fluid requirements change with age
• know the Mini Nutritional Assessment, which is used in geriatrics to assess the current nutritional status of seniors
• you have learned about the vitamin, mineral and trace element requirements of older people and the effects of deficiencies