By the year 2030, it's estimated that one in five people will be a senior citizen. But sadly, living longer doesn't necessarily mean living better. According to the National Institute on Aging, malnutrition is a common risk for people over age 65.
Are You At Risk?
Take the following self-scoring mini-assessment to determine if you are at nutritional risk.
Malnutrition Mini-Assessment
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2 Points
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I have an illness or condition that made me change the kind and/or amount of food I eat. |
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3 Points
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I eat fewer than two meals per day. |
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2 Points
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I eat few fruits, vegetables, or milk products. |
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2 Points
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I have three or more drinks of beer, liquor, or wine almost every day. |
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2 Points
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I have tooth or mouth problems that make it hard for me to eat. |
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4 Points
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I don't always have enough money to buy the food I need. |
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1 Point
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I eat alone most of the time. |
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1 Point
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I take three or more different prescribed or over-the-counter drugs a day. |
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2 Points
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Without wanting to, I have lost or gained 10 pounds in the last six months. |
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2 Points
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I'm not always physically able to shop, cook, and/or feed myself. |
| Your Score: |
| 2 Points or fewer |
Congratulations! |
| 3-5 Points |
Try to improve your lifestyle or dietary patterns. |
| 6 Points or more |
Consider contacting a healthcare professional (your doctor, a social service worker, or a dietitian) who can assess any health problems you might have. |
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Developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Dietetic Association, and the National Council on Aging.
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