Volkert D (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Book Volume: 51
Pages Range: 186-200
Journal Issue: 3
DOI: 10.1055/a-2518-8598
Numerous age-related changes in all areas of life increase the risk of inadequate nutrition and, consequently, the risk of malnutrition, dehydration, sarcopenia, and frailty. As more and more people with obesity reach old age, the prevalence of obesity and its associated diseases also increase with age. The aim of this review is to present relevant age-related changes and the resulting recommendations for the prevention and treatment of these geriatric nutritional syndromes. In general, the diet of older people, just as in younger years should be as varied and diverse as possible and based on nutrient-dense and predominantly plant-based foods. Particular attention must be paid to an adequate intake of energy according to individual needs, meeting the increased protein requirement (guiding value for daily intake: 1 g/kg body weight), and adequate water intake (approximately 30 ml/kg body weight and day). Routine screening for malnutrition followed by investigation of potential causes enables early detection of existing problems and identification of possible starting points for intervention. Strategies for the prevention and treatment of malnutrition range from eliminating underlying causes to supportive measures, nutritional counseling, dietary modification, and oral nutritional supplements to enteral and parenteral nutrition. Weight-reducing diets should only be considered in older persons with obesity who have weight-related health problems, and after careful weighing of the benefits and risks, particularly for muscle function. Nutritional interventions should always be individualized and comprehensive, initiated early, and maintained for a sufficient period of time in order to address the great heterogeneity, the multitude of influencing factors, and the complex needs of older people.
APA:
Volkert, D. (2026). Clinical nutrition in old age Klinische Ernährung im Alter. Aktuelle Ernährungsmedizin, 51(3), 186-200. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-2518-8598
MLA:
Volkert, Dorothee. "Clinical nutrition in old age Klinische Ernährung im Alter." Aktuelle Ernährungsmedizin 51.3 (2026): 186-200.
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