RISK FACTORS FOR MORTALITY IN A SAMPLE OF NURSING HOME RESIDENTS

Abstract

Malnutrition is highly prevalent in geriatric populations, particularly in persons living in Nursing Homes (NH). Inadequate nutrition is one of the main risk factors for the onset of frailty and may contribute to the subsequent development of disability and mortality among NH residents. An optimal nutritional status and, wherever necessary, supplementation with macronutrients and micronutrients, may reduce the risk of mortality. Dementia is also prevalent among NH residents. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between mortality, and several risk factors and clinical characteristics of NH residents, including disability, nutritional status, and cognitive decline in a sample of NH residents in Palermo (Italy). This in an observational prospective study. Ninety four residents (53 women and 41 men) living in the NH “Karol Residenza Sanitaria Assistenziale” from Palermo were recruited for the study. The age range of the NH residents was between 58 and 96 years old. We included in the analyses demographic and anthropometric parameters (age, sex, body weight at baseline and during hospitalization, body mass index [BMI]), disability (ADL, IADL), cognitive and depression (MMSE, GDS), n of drugs used, multimorbidity (CIRS), laboratory parameters (serum albumin, hemoglobin, triglycerides), anorexia, and mortality during hospitalization.