Malnutrition occurs when the body does not get or absorb enough nutrients from food. About 1 in 4 older adults is malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. Risk increases with age and may also be affected by chronic conditions, some medications, changes in appetite, and limited access to nutritious food. Malnutrition can contribute to muscle loss, weakness, falls, hospitalization, and loss of independence.
Held every September, Malnutrition Awareness WeekTM is led by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN). The campaign raises awareness about the importance of prevention, early identification, and effective treatment. It encourages healthcare professionals to screen, assess, and intervene early while empowering older adults and caregivers to recognize the signs and discuss nutrition concerns with their healthcare providers.
How ACL Supports Nutrition and Healthy Aging
Proper nutrition is an important part of healthy aging. ACL programs funded under the Older Americans Act (OAA) help identify older adults at risk for malnutrition and connect them with nutrition interventions and other supports that promote health and independence.
The OAA-funded Senior Nutrition Program provides nutritious congregate and home-delivered meals while reducing social isolation and connecting participants with additional services. Further, ACL’s Nutrition and Aging Resource Center provides training, technical assistance, and practical tools to help the aging network prevent, identify, and address malnutrition. Evidence-based programs, such as chronic disease self-management education and falls prevention, also help address factors that increase the risk of malnutrition.
Featured Resources from ACL’s Resource Center
- How ACL's Senior Nutrition Program helps address malnutrition among older adults
- Validated Malnutrition Screening Tools
- Malnutrition Screening Practices for OAA Nutrition Programs
- How to Incorporate Malnutrition into a State Plan on Aging
- Innovations in Nutrition Programs and Services Project Capstones
Additional ACL Resources
- Find a local program: Eldercare Locator
- Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Programs
- Falls Prevention Program