Relationship Between Weight Loss and Problems With Oral Intake in Institutionalised Older Adults: A Japanese...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Unintentional weight loss is a significant concern in institutionalised older adults, impacting health and quality of life.
• Problems with oral intake are common in this population and may contribute to weight loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between specific problems with oral intake and significant weight loss (5% or more) over one year in institutionalised older adults.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year longitudinal observational study was conducted in Japanese nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
• Oral intake problems were assessed using standardized Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare items.
• Multivariable logistic regression models analyzed the independent association of oral intake issues with weight loss, controlling for baseline and follow-up transitions.

Main Results:

• Out of 172 participants, 57 (33.1%) experienced a weight loss of 5% or more.
• The emergence of somnolence or clouding of consciousness during meals at follow-up was independently associated with significant weight loss.
• These findings were adjusted for baseline characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Somnolence or clouding of consciousness during meals are potential early indicators of significant weight loss in institutionalised older adults.
• Recognising these signs can facilitate early detection and intervention, potentially preventing adverse outcomes and improving care quality.