The Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on the Malnutrition and Sarcopenia Risk in Elderly Living Alone

The Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on the Malnutrition and Sarcopenia Risk in Elderly Living Alone

This study aims to examine the effects of meal delivery services on the nutritional status and mobility of malnourished older adults living alone at a foundation in Taoyuan. Participants will continue their usual diet and consume a daily oral nutrition supplement (ONS) of their preferred type (instant powder with milk or soy milk), provided monthly by social workers for 12 months. Nutritional assessments will be conducted every three months, including the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), anthropometric measures, and 24-hour dietary recall. Mobility will be evaluated using grip strength, walking speed, chair stand test, and calf circumference. Psychological outcomes will be assessed every six months using a quality-of-life questionnaire and the short form of the Geriatric Depression Scale. This study is expected to determine whether regular meal delivery services can improve nutritional status, mobility, quality of life, and depressive symptoms among elderly individuals living alone.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) score < 23.5, Body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m², Calf circumference: < 34 cm for men and < 33 cm for women, Handgrip strength: < 28 kg for men and < 18 kg for women

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), Chronic renal failure, Bedridden and unable to ambulate, Older adults with chronic conditions-such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or poorly controlled diabetes-who are deemed unsuitable after professional assessment