Assessment of Nutritional Status and Muscle Wasting in Elderly Patients with Chronic Digestive Disorders: A Multi-Tool Evaluation Approach

Kamaleeshwari G, Lally Hanna Luke

Abstract: With the rising aging population, maintaining optimal nutritional health in elderly individuals particularly those suffering from chronic digestive disorders has become increasingly vital. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of elderly patients with chronic digestive diseases using a combination of tools, including the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), calf circumference, Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC), and markers of muscle wasting. A comprehensive evaluation was performed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition and muscle degradation within this vulnerable population. Results indicated a high incidence of malnutrition and muscle wasting, with the SGA effectively categorizing patients based on their nutritional status. Additionally, calf circumference and MUAC measurements offered objective insights into muscle mass and nutritional reserves. These findings emphasize the importance of routine nutritional screenings in elderly individuals with chronic gastrointestinal conditions to identify those at risk and implement timely, individualized nutritional interventions. The study calls for further longitudinal research to assess the impact of such interventions and advocates for the integration of comprehensive nutritional evaluations into standard geriatric care to improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Keywords: elderly, nutritional status, chronic digestive disorders, malnutrition, muscle wasting, Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), calf circumference, MUAC, geriatric nutrition, nutritional screening

How to Cite?: Kamaleeshwari G, Lally Hanna Luke, "Assessment of Nutritional Status and Muscle Wasting in Elderly Patients with Chronic Digestive Disorders: A Multi-Tool Evaluation Approach", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 361-364, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25704122454, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25704122454