Impact of Functional Capacity on Nutritional Status of Hospitalized Elderly in Qazvin, Iran

Background: Lack of independence and unwanted dependence on others for activities of daily living (ADL) and decreased functional capacity affect nutritional status of the elderly. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the impact of functional capacity on malnutrition status in hospitalized elderly patients in the Qazvin city of Iran. Patients and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on patients 60 years or older hospitalized in two teaching hospitals of Qazvin, Iran, from May to October 2011. The nutritional status was assessed using the mini nutritional assessment (MNA) questionnaire. Functional capacity of the elderly was assessed using self-report questionnaires of ADL and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. Results: Of the 322 participant, 171 (53.1%) were male. The mean age was 70.36 ± 7.8 years. Based on MNA, 96 patients (29.8%) had normal nutritional status, 138 (42.9%) were at risk of malnutrition and 43 (13.4%) had malnutrition. Dependency on ADL and IADL was significantly associated with malnutrition and risk of malnutrition. In the logistic regression analysis, IADL was associated with malnutrition (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.07 - 1.33; P < 0.001). Conclusions: Risk of malnutrition as well as reduced functional ability was high among the hospitalized elderly of Qazvin. Nutritional status assessment of older adults is necessary, particularly when they are admitted to hospitals.