Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies among elderly persons attending University College Hospital, Ibadan: a pilot study.

Abstract

Introduction: malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are pressing health concerns, particularly among the elderly. As this population is vulnerable to nutritional imbalances, understanding the prevalence and contributing factors is crucial for designing targeted interventions. This pilot study focuses on assessing the extent of these issues among elderly people attending a geriatric center in the University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Methods: this study employs a cross-sectional design, involving a sample of elderly individuals attending a geriatric center at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Anthropometric measurements and dietary assessments were conducted using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographic factors and other medical parameters. Continuous and categorical variables were compared respectively by Student's t-test or Chi-square test respectively.

Results: in this study, findings indicated that none of the participants exhibited malnutrition. Instead, 72.7% demonstrated a normal nutritional status, while 27.3% were identified as being at risk of malnutrition. A lesser fraction had deficiency of vitamins A (10%) and D (1%). Furthermore, males aged 60-69 years and those above 80 years showed a higher likelihood of a favorable nutritional assessment compared to females.

Conclusion: the study revealed an absence of malnutrition among the elderly individuals attending the geriatric center in the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Notably, females had a higher probability of malnutrition compared to males. These findings underscore the importance of targeted nutritional interventions, especially among at-risk groups, to promote the overall well-being of this population.