Prevalence of anorexia in elderly hospitalized patients [Prevalenza dell'anoressia nel paziente anziano in ospedale]

Anorexia is the most common pathological change in eating behaviour and accounts for a large percentage of undernutrition in older adults. The aim of this study was to determine, in a sample of elderly subjects, the prevalence of anorexia. Methods. Patients aged 65 years and above were recruited from four geriatric acute care and rehabilitation wards. Nutritional status, depression, social, functional and cognitive status, quality of life, health status, chewing, swallowing, sensorial functions were evaluated in anorexic patients and in a sample of "normal eating" elderly subjects. Results. 96 subjects were selected (66 women; 81.5 ± 7 years; 30 men: 81.8 ± 8 years). The prevalence of anorexia was 33.3% in women and 26.7% in men. Anorexic subjects were older and with reduced Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. A higher (although not statistically significant) level of comorbidity was present in anorexic subjects. Conclusions. Anorexia impacts physical function, mortality and quality of life. Therefore, in older patients, it is important to perform a detailed evaluation of the nutritional risk, to evaluate the nutritional status and feeding intake, to identify and treat the underlying disease when possible, to institute environmental and behavioural modifications, to organise higher feeding assistance during mealtimes, to plan early nutrition rehabilitation and education programs for caregivers. There is also the necessity to develop easy to perform diagnostic procedures and, therefore, tailored treatment strategies.