Pharmacological Perspectives on Geriatric Nutrition: Prevalence, Determinants, and Evidence-Based Interventions for Healthy Aging

Dr. Mani Bharti, Dr. Mamta Yadav, Dr. Ekta Arora

Abstract: The nutritional needs of older adults differ substantially from those of younger populations due to age-related physiological changes, multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and socioeconomic vulnerability. Malnutrition in the elderly remains a major global public health concern, with prevalence ranging from 15?30% in community-dwelling adults and exceeding 50% among hospitalized or institutionalized populations [3?6]. Protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies?particularly vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B12, folate, and iron?contribute to sarcopenia, frailty, impaired immunity, cognitive decline, and decreased quality of life. Risk factors include anorexia of aging, poor dentition, chronic diseases, depression, social isolation, and financial constraints. This review synthesizes evidence from 2015?2024, incorporating systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and global health reports, to evaluate the current burden, risk factors, and pharmacologically relevant interventions in geriatric nutrition. Evidence suggests that early nutritional screening (MNA, MUST), individualized diet counseling, protein optimization, fortification strategies, micronutrient supplementation, and community-based nutrition programs significantly improve outcomes [3,11,15,18]. Despite this, challenges persist in implementation, accessibility, and cultural adaptability. Strengthening geriatric nutrition is critical for promoting healthy aging, reducing healthcare utilization, improving physical function, and preventing pharmacologically relevant complications associated with multimorbidity and polypharmacy. Multidisciplinary approaches involving clinicians, nutritionists, caregivers, and policymakers are essential to address current gaps and optimize elderly nutritional health.

Keywords: geriatric nutrition, malnutrition, micronutrient deficiency, protein-energy malnutrition, healthy aging, pharmacology, sarcopenia

How to Cite?: Dr. Mani Bharti, Dr. Mamta Yadav, Dr. Ekta Arora, "Pharmacological Perspectives on Geriatric Nutrition: Prevalence, Determinants, and Evidence-Based Interventions for Healthy Aging", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 727-729, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251209131935, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251209131935