Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Medicine Science, cilt.13, sa.4, ss.822-828, 2024 (TRDizin)
This study aimed to evaluate the malnutrition status of elderly patients by applying a mini nutritional assessment in patients aged 65 years and older. Patients aged 65 years and older who applied to family health centers numbered 22.01.009-026-047 in Edirne province were included in these study. Verbal consent was obtained, and patients were asked to answer 27 questions face to face, including the Mini Nutritional Assessment. The investigators performed the anthropometric measurements required for the assessment. The Number Cruncher Statistical System was used for statistical analysis; p <0.05 was considered significant. A total of 153 subjects, 56.9% (n=87) female and 43.1% (n=66) male, were included in the study. There were 3 (2%) individuals with body mass index less than 19. There was no significant correlation between educational status and malnutrition test results (p=0.189). Twenty-five (16.3%) of the participants had no income, 21 (13.7%) lived alone, and no significant relationship was found with the malnutrition test results (p=0.537). A significant negative correlation existed between age and malnutrition test results (r: -0.346; p=0.006; p<0.01). There was a significant decrease in nutritional quality with increasing age (p=0.004). Thise study demonstrated that the malnutrition rate increases with age, therefore, elderly patients should be evaluated more carefully. Early diagnosis and treatment of malnutrition can prevent complications, accelerate recovery, and significantly contribute to maintaining function and improving the quality of life of elderly individuals.