Nutrition and Aging

Based on a lecture in our older adult class with a focus on nutrition, the key takeaways were that nutrition is important for everyone, specifically the aging population. Nutrition is vital for things like would healing and preventing a decline in function. Further, malnutrition can occur, especially in those who have been in the ICU for a number of days. A person's metabolism, when they have been in the ICU, is functioning at such a higher rate, so the need to intake more calories and nutrients becomes even more important. Another takeaway would be that lean body mass doesn't decline as a normal part of aging and if older adults could maintain their nutrition and exercise, it would be extremely beneficial to them in regard to function. One way occupational therapists could be involved in assisting clients, groups, and populations with nutrition is through our interventions. One intervention that could be done for a specific individual could be assisting the client with meal preparation. Educating the client and practicing strategies for meal preparation helps address how to prepare foods that fulfill all of the nutrients needed and ensure they have their recommended amount of protein. Another intervention that could be introduced would be a food log to provide a visual on what their diet consisted of throughout the day. This would allow the individual to see whether or not they have consumed any protein during their meals. Further, being able to check off the foods they have consumed can provide a motivation component for completing their nutrition requirements for the day. An intervention that could be administered to a group could be an educational session on the importance of nutrition and provide a list of foods with the recommended amounts based on body weight. This could be in the form of a group therapy session, for example, when self-feeding is being evaluated, or it could be for a group of health professionals such as nurses or physicians. Part of the educating process for group therapy can include activities related to cooking or baking depending upon factors such as cognitive status. The group can work together to prepare a healthy, nutrient packed meal. Group therapy can address many different aspects within our scope of practice, therefore it wouldn't be too difficult to include nutrition education within any group therapy session. Of course, the all client's interests and preferences should always be taken into consideration when planning interventions, therefore finding out their food preferences can be a huge piece of the puzzle when related to nutrition.