How do I prevent malnutrition in old age?

Ensure sufficient intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and proteins, as well as water

- Chin Soo Fang Senior Correspondent

An increasing number of seniors are suffering from malnutrition, according to healthcare providers here.

Malnutrition is broadly defined as a deficiency or imbalance in one’s intake of nutrients, and healthcare clusters here have found that older adults, especially those who are more frail and have to be hospitalised, are at greater risk of it.

The Straits Times looks at what you need to do to keep malnutrition at bay, and to maintain a healthy diet into old age.

Q Why is malnutrition dangerous, especially for seniors?

A Malnutrition can lead to muscle loss, cognitive impairment, increased frailty and a greater risk of falls and fractures, said Associate Professor Reshma Merchant, head and senior consultant of National University Hospital’s division of geriatric medicine.

NHG Health’s Adjunct Associate Professor Lim Yen Peng said inadequate intake of proteins, vitamins and minerals can also slow recovery from illnesses, affect mood and memory, and ultimately affect a person's quality of life and independence.

The risk increases as you age, as older adults require a higher protein intake to maintain muscle mass, even as ageing is often accompanied by reduced appetite, altered taste and feeling full more quickly.

The 2022 National Nutrition Survey found that one in two adults aged 50 to 69 did not meet the recommended intake of 20g to 30g of protein per meal - the equivalent of a palm-size piece of chicken breast.

Q Are there simple ways I can ensure a balanced diet?

A A visual way to check if your meal is balanced is to use the Health Promotion Board’s My Healthy Plate as a guide.