Chapter 18: Nutrition and Older Adults

The chapter emphasizes that geriatric nutritional intervention aims to extend lifespan while compressing morbidity, thereby reducing the duration of disease and disability in advanced years. Systematic nutritional risk assessment forms a cornerstone of geriatric care, utilizing evidence-based screening instruments including the Nutrition Screening Initiative DETERMINE checklist and the Mini Nutritional Assessment to detect vulnerability factors such as unintentional weight loss. Age-stratified Dietary Reference Intakes for individuals aged 51 to 70 and those over 71 guide macronutrient and micronutrient recommendations, while MyPlate principles are adapted to prioritize nutrient density given often-reduced caloric intake. The chapter identifies critical nutrients requiring special attention in aging populations, including adequate protein consumption at 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, along with sufficient Vitamin D, Vitamin K, magnesium, and dietary fiber intake. Emerging research on caloric restriction in aging explores potential advantages through reduced oxidative damage and modified metabolic function, though conclusive human longitudinal data remains limited. The chapter addresses the largely unregulated dietary supplement market, underscoring the necessity of professional vigilance regarding safety and efficacy. Finally, the chapter articulates evidence-based principles for effective nutritional education among older learners, recognizing age-related physiological changes including diminished vision and auditory function, and establishing that successful behavior modification depends on four integrated components: cognitive understanding, demonstrated capability, personal confidence, and sustained commitment to dietary changes.