Is Malnutrition Most Associated with Dynamic or Static Physical Performance?

Abstract

Objective: Malnutrition is a state resulting from lack of uptake or intake of nutrition that leads to altered body composition, decreased fat-free mass and body cell mass. Its prevalence varies according to health conditions and the level of care dependency. The prevalence in individuals over 65 years of age attending outpatient clinics varies in 9% to 15%. Malnutrition can be associated with decreased physical and mental function and impairment of body cell components. Decreased physical capacity causes shortened mobility and difficulties in daily activities such as shopping, cooking, eating, etc. Malnutrition and decline in functional status are two important factors contributing to loss of independence. The aim of this work was to describe the association between nutritional and functional status.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 406 patients aged 60 and older who were referred to the geriatric outpatient clinic at Istanbul University Istanbul Medical Faculty. The nutrition status was determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-short form (MNA-SF, cut off ≤11) including six questions specific to diet and anthropometric measurements. The total score can be as high as 14 points. A score of 12 to 14 signifies normal nutritional status and 11 or lower indicates possible malnutrition. Both dynamic and static functional status were evaluated. Measures of dynamic physical performance included the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), Gait Speed test, and Chair Stand test (CST). Static performancewas determined by balance tests and hand grip strength (HGS). Linear regression analysis was used to study the association between malnutrition with physical performance.Results: The study sample comprised 406 participants with the mean age of 74.8±6.7 years. 69.7% were female and 30.3% were male. Malnutrition was found in 28.8% of the patients (n=117). Malnutrition was found most strongly associated with HGS (p