[The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) Guideline on Clinical Nutrition and Hydration in Geriatrics] - PubMed
7 hours ago
- #Nutrition
- #Hydration
- #Geriatrics
- Malnutrition and dehydration are widespread in older people, with obesity also being an increasing problem.
- The guideline provides 82 evidence-based recommendations for clinical nutrition and hydration in older persons.
- Recommendations cover four main topics: basic principles, malnutrition risk, specific diseases, and dehydration prevention.
- All older persons should be routinely screened for malnutrition to identify risks early.
- Oral nutrition can be supported by nursing interventions, education, and nutritional supplements.
- Enteral or parenteral nutrition should be used if oral nutrition is insufficient or impossible.
- Dietary restrictions should generally be avoided, except for obese older persons with weight-related health problems.
- Older persons should be encouraged to consume adequate fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Interventions should be individualized, comprehensive, and part of a multidisciplinary approach.
- Effective interventions can improve nutritional status, clinical outcomes, and quality of life.