Research Paper: Mini Nutritional Assessment and its Correlation With Elderly Nursing Home Residents in Khorramabad, Iran

Elderly nursing homes residents are at an increased risk of malnutrition due to a variety of factors. We aimed at investigating the prevalence of malnutrition and its correlation with elderly subjects using Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on elderly individuals (N=56; female=28) dwelling in the Sedigh Nursing Home in Khorramabad, Iran, in 2015. Nutritional status was assessed using MNA, which consisted of anthropometric measurements, global assessment, dietary questionnaire and subjective assessment. Results: The participants’ mean age was 74.86 (SD=±11.82) years. The mean MNA-score of the subjects was 19.46 (SD=±3.23). The prevalence of malnutrition and at risk of malnutrition were 20% and 70%, respectively. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed between male and female, age subgroups, marital status, education levels and different cut-off points of the Body Mass Index (BMI), Mid-Arm Circumferences (MACs) and Calf Circumferences (CCs) regarding the nutritional status of subjects. Malnutrition and risk of malnutrition were observed significantly and more frequently in elderly who had weight loss greater than 3 kg, took more than three prescription drugs per day and had low/moderate protein intake (P<0.05). The MNA-score was independently associated with age, weight, BMI, MACs, CCs and food intake during last 3 months (P<0.05). Discussion: According to high prevalence of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition among the subjects, proper nutritional interventions are required. Longitudinal studies on elderly and primary prevention by lifestyle interventions according to the culture and habits of the region are recommended.