A study by Bournemouth University has discovered that half of all older adults admitted to hospital in the UK are malnourished. There are a number of reasons as to why older people may find it harder to get all the nutrients they need. Declining appetite and declining metabolism, a loss of taste and smell, lack of mobility, poverty, depression and confusion can all contribute. Heart-protective omega-3 fatty acids also fall short of the targets for optimal health.
In the report, Dr Appleton concludes: “Healthy ageing, and ongoing healthy nutrition are major current societal challenges. Supplements could play an important role in addressing these challenges.”
