Digestive and Metabolic Diseases

Nutrition and Aging: Geriatric Health

As the global population ages, nutrition in the elderly becomes a pressing public health concern. Aging is associated with physiological changes such as decreased metabolic rate, reduced appetite, altered taste and smell, and impaired nutrient absorption, which increase the risk of malnutrition.

This topic delves into the nutritional challenges faced by older adults, including sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), osteoporosis, frailty, and cognitive decline. It emphasizes the role of nutrition in disease prevention, functional independence, and quality of life in aging populations. Nutritional screening tools, supplementation strategies (e.g., vitamin D, calcium, omega-3), and the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions in older adults are also explored.

Geriatric nutrition supports healthy aging and helps reduce healthcare burdens by preventing hospitalization and institutionalization.

Key Topics:

• Physiological changes affecting nutrition in aging

• Malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies in the elderly

• Sarcopenia and frailty prevention

• Cognitive health and nutrition

• Bone health and micronutrient support

• Managing chronic disease with diet

• Nutritional screening and interventions