Predicting Anorexia-related Weight Loss among Residents of Governmental Geriatric-Care Homes: A multi-governorates Study

Abstract

Background:Anorexia of Aging is one of the leading causes of malnutrition in the elderly, which has been
identified as a geriatric syndrome. Which is defined as a physiological deficiency or defect that occurs as a
person ages, this, can cause decrease in the amount of energy and essential nutrients that the human body needs.
Which may cause involuntary weight loss, and leading to major complications.
Objectives:This study is endeavored to predict anorexia-related weight loss among residents of governmental
geriatric-care homes and to find out the relationship between the predicted weight-loss outcome & sociodemographic characteristics, of them.
Methodology:A descriptive cross-sectional design has been carried out in the governmental geriatric care homes
in Iraq middle Euphrates governorates. The period of the study started from (1 October 2020 to 27 June 2021). A
non- probability (purposive) sample was selected to obtain representative and accurate data for the (136) elderly
living in geriatric care homes. Results: The results of the study shows that 33.0% of study sample were
classified as having a risk for anorexia and needs nutrition counseling. While (24.0%) of study participants were
classified as needing frequent reassessment for the nutritional status. therefore, More than half of the study
sample were at risk of the anorexia and unintentional weight loss and it is expected to lose at least (5 %) of their
total body weight during the upcoming 6 months, if no nutritional counseling and interventions are executed.
Recommendation: this study recommended that both an urgent and tailored nutritional intervention is required
to manage the aforementioned vulnerability of the elderly individuals living in governmental geriatric care
homes. Of equal importance, using the CNAQ as a valid and reliable tool by community nurses is essential to
provide the maximum level of nutritional screening and counseling to the target population.