Tag: Geriatrics

Did you know that the average person's taste bud count significantly decreases and regenerates less effectively after age 50? This biological fact, along with other factors, is central to understanding the complex relationship behind why older people like bitter food is often misunderstood and how their palates evolve with age.

According to one review, the estimated prevalence of malnutrition in older adults living in the community is 18.6%, with rates rising significantly in hospital or care settings. This widespread issue is a major concern in geriatric health, impacting overall well-being and recovery from illness.

Hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, is the most common electrolyte disorder seen in clinical practice, affecting up to 30% of hospitalized patients. A surprising and often overlooked factor contributing to this condition is reduced oral intake, which can lead to a dangerously low solute load and impair the kidneys' ability to excrete water.

An estimated one-half of the older adult population is at risk of malnutrition, making routine nutritional screening a critical component of geriatric care. Determining which malnutrition screening tool is considered most appropriate for older adults depends largely on the clinical setting and specific patient needs. This guide explores the most validated and commonly used tools to help health professionals and caregivers make an informed choice.

Over 40% of elderly patients may be at risk of malnutrition upon hospital admission, a significant health concern that can negatively impact patient outcomes. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was specifically designed to address this by providing a reliable method for evaluating nutritional status in older adults.

A search for Dr. Sarah Berry reveals two distinct and highly accomplished experts, one a world-renowned nutritional scientist based in London and the other a leading geriatrician and researcher at Harvard. This often-confused fact is important because their respective fields of study and contributions are entirely different, impacting distinct areas of health science and public understanding.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), severe acute malnutrition (SAM) affects nearly 20 million children globally and is a leading cause of childhood mortality. While nutritional rehabilitation is the cornerstone of treatment for protein energy malnutrition (PEM), specific drug therapies are essential to manage complications and support recovery. These medications address underlying infections, correct metabolic derangements, and stimulate appetite to aid nutritional recovery.

According to a September 2024 review, low serum vitamin D levels are significantly associated with an increased risk of sarcopenia. Beyond vitamin D, a range of vitamin deficiencies can cause sarcopenia by impacting muscle synthesis, nerve function, and cellular protection.

According to the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN), untreated, at-risk patients face a three times higher frequency of complications. This underscores the importance of ESPEN guidelines in enhancing patient care through evidence-based nutritional support.

According to the World Health Organization, nearly half of all deaths among children under five are linked to undernutrition. Poor nutrition is a complex issue influenced by a variety of interacting factors, not just a simple lack of food. Identifying which of the following is a risk factor for poor nutrition is the first critical step toward prevention and treatment.