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Frailty identification and management by dietitians: A qualitative study
Rachael Frost1, Palak Bavishi2, Nadia Kim2
1School of Public and Allied Health, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK; Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK.
Dietitians are confident in managing the nutritional aspects of frailty but need clearer guidance and more training for effective identification and care of older adults. Further development is needed to strengthen their role in frailty management.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutrition Science
- Healthcare Professions
Background:
- Frailty is prevalent in older adults and linked to poor health outcomes.
- Malnutrition and frailty share significant overlap, highlighting the potential role of dietitians.
- Limited research exists on dietitians' experiences in identifying and managing frailty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore UK registered dietitians' perceptions of identifying and managing frailty in older people.
- To understand dietitians' confidence, challenges, and training needs in frailty care.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving virtual interviews and focus groups.
- 13 UK registered dietitians working with older adults participated.
- Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Main Results:
- Dietitians expressed confidence in managing nutritional aspects of frailty but uncertainty in identification.
- They emphasized patient/carer education and the value of multidisciplinary teams.
- Lack of formal training and variable understanding of their role by other professionals were reported challenges.
Conclusions:
- Clearer guidance is needed to define dietitians' role in frailty identification and care.
- Increased formal training opportunities are essential for dietitians in frailty management.
- Strengthening the dietitian's role can improve holistic care for frail older adults.
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