Clinical Nutrition: Dietary Care for Elderly

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Decline

• The average decline in BMR is around 2-3% per decade starting at age 30.
• The more rapid decline in BMR for women occurs at age 50.
• For men, the more rapid decline occurs at age 60.
• The decline in BMR is due to a combination of factors, including loss of muscle mass, decreased thyroid hormone production, and changes in body composition.

Age-Related Changes and Health

• The age of 65 is often used as the defining point for an older person.
• Acute and chronic diseases combined with age-related changes increase the risk of malnutrition and other health problems.

Dietary Care for Elderly

• The objective of dietary care in elderly individuals is to maintain a healthy weight, adequate nutrient intake, and overall health.

Sarcopenia and Digestive Changes

• Sarcopenia, age-related muscle loss, is influenced by factors like reduced physical activity, decreased protein synthesis, and hormonal changes.
• A common digestive change associated with aging is slower gastric emptying.
• This contributes to decreased energy expenditure, especially for women over 71 years old with an ideal BMI.

Carbohydrate and Protein Recommendations

• The absolute minimum daily carbohydrate intake needed to maintain normal brain function in children and adults is 130 grams.
• Complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains, beans, and vegetables, are recommended energy sources.
• The recommended daily protein intake for adults over 65 years old is 1.0-1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight.

Sensory Impairments and Social Changes

• A common sensory impairment associated with aging is a decline in taste and smell.
• 'Isolation' and 'fewer social opportunities to maintain self-esteem' are examples of social changes associated with aging.