[Malnutrition in geriatrics : feeding tube?]

As the population ages, undernutrition has become a major public health concern. Elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to nutritional disorders due to various physiological, pathological, psychological, and social factors. When spontaneous oral intake becomes insufficient or impossible, artificial nutrition may be necessary to prevent or correct undernutrition, enhance quality of life, and, in some cases, extend life expectancy. However, artificial nutrition, whether enteral or parenteral, must be carefully tailored to the specific needs of elderly patients, taking into account their comorbidities, level of autonomy, prognosis, and personal wishes. Ethical considerations are especially important in end-of-life situations.