[Malnutrition in old age: the importance of multi-dimensional evaluation]

Protein-energy malnutrition is a frequent, but often overlooked problem in geriatric patients. To prevent malnutrition and its severe complications, a systematic strategy for identifying signs, symptoms and risk factors of malnutrition is required. In this review we present a plan for a multidimensional nutritional workup, including functional nutritional assessment. Special aspects of malnutrition management in geriatric patients are discussed (e.g. dementia, tube-feeding, environmental aspects). Use of available diagnostic and therapeutic measures for preventing malnutrition may lead to improved quality of life in many geriatric patients.