Undernutrition in older adults across the continuum of care - Nutritional assessment, barriers, and interventions

Undernutrition can be a significant deterrent to healthy aging and can negatively affect health outcomes in older adults. Researchers have identified the prevalence of undernutrition in older adults and the need for intervention, yet the incidence remains high. The purpose of this article is twofold: to emphasize the need for nutritional assessment across the continuum of care as experienced by older adults, and to identify possible barriers to effective treatment. The assessment of nutritional status and the implementation of effective nutritional interventions are essential to the health of older adults.