Malnutrition and Dementia: The Silent Risk
By Brianna Smith and Dr Karen Murphy
Nearly two in three people with dementia will experience significant weight loss during the course of their condition, and up to 50% of aged care residents are either malnourished or at risk. This often-overlooked issue is more than just a dietary concern, malnutrition is closely linked to increased rates of hospitalisation, infections, delayed wound healing, and higher mortality.
In aged care, identifying and addressing malnutrition early is crucial to maintaining quality of life.
Three Practical Steps to Support Good Nutrition:
- Start the Conversation
Asking simple questions: “Are you enjoying your food?” “Do you feel hungry often?”. This can open the door to identifying issues early. - Use Screening Tools
The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a widely used, evidence-based screening tool designed to identify older adults who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. The tool assesses several factors, including recent weight loss, appetite changes, mobility, psychological stress, and body mass index (BMI). The MNA takes only a few minutes to complete and can be administered by nurses, care staff, or allied health professionals without needing specialist training. - Monitor Changes Over Time
Regular check-ins help track weight loss, appetite, or swallowing difficulties — and enable early intervention with dietitians or GPs.
The Bottom Line:
Malnutrition is not inevitable in dementia care. With awareness, regular screening, and supportive conversations, care staff can play a vital role in protecting health and dignity for people living with dementia.
To understand more about malnutrition and dementia, you can read more by subscribing to the Australian Journal of Dementia Care, July 2025 issue.