Nutritional Status in Frail and Non-Frail Independent Very Old Individuals

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional profile of very old individuals according to frailty, since dietary changes may be associated with this syndrome. Octogenarians were evaluated for phenotypic classification of frailty, including frail and non-frail individuals. Body Mass Index (BMI), upper arm circumference (AC), and calf circumference (CC) were obtained. The Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to assess eating habits in the last 6 months and the Mini Nutritional Assessment to assess nutritional status. Individuals aged 80 years or older had a median age of 84.5 years. Most ate 4 meals a day and had a normal nutritional status, despite the altered diet composition, with excess carbohydrates, a lower percentage of lipids, and lower protein intake than the current recommendation. Overall, there was a low intake of total fiber, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium. Comparing frail and non-frail individuals, the former were older, had more comorbidities, worse nutritional status, and lower fiber and potassium intake. BMI, AC, and CC were not different between groups. Frailty was associated with worse nutritional status. This study emphasizes the importance of continuous nutritional assessment of very old individuals and identification of frailty syndrome so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.