Nutritional status and Depression levels among Ageing Adults of Pilani, Rajasthan

  • Unique Paper ID: 152821
  • Volume: 8
  • Issue: 4
  • PageNo: 559-564
  • Abstract:
  • Nutrition is a critical component of mental health in the elderly population and has an impact on the ageing process. The global population is increasingly ageing. According to the World Health Organization, by 2100, people aged 60 and more would have more than tripled. According to WHO estimates, depression affects 7% of all persons over the age of 65. Depression is "a common mental condition marked by persistent sorrow and a loss of interest in activities that lasts at least two weeks and has a significant impact on our lives". Hence, the study aims at studying the nutritional assessment and depression levels of the ageing adults. Methods: The purpose of this study was to determine nutritional status and depression levels of 100 ageing adults, aged 60 years and above, residing in CEERI campus, Pilani, Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan (INDIA). The nutritional status assessment was conducted using Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) scale comprising of 18 items (30 points) and assessment of depression was done using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Results: It was discovered that 9% of the ageing adults were malnourished, 43% were determined to be at risk of malnutrition, whereas 48% were observed to be well-nourished. In terms of depression prevalent among the elderly, 7% had severe depression and 29% had mild depression, according to the study. Conclusion: The study showed the presence of malnutrition and depression in almost half of the subjects comprising the sample. Therefore, a greater emphasis on diet and potential nutritional programmes are required in ageing adults. Along with meeting their nutritional needs, activities to keep the ageing adults occupied, self dependent and happy need to be planned so as to alleviate the depression that sets in during these golden years.

Cite This Article

  • ISSN: 2349-6002
  • Volume: 8
  • Issue: 4
  • PageNo: 559-564

Nutritional status and Depression levels among Ageing Adults of Pilani, Rajasthan

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