Assessment of the nutritional status and its association with the activities of daily living among the elderly population in Udupi District, Karnataka

Nutrition plays a vital role in overall health and development, serving as an essential determinant of health among the elderly. Older adults are at increased risk of malnutrition due to age-related changes in body composition, higher protein and micronutrient needs, altered appetite, and declining sensory function. The elderly population in India has grown by 35.5% over the past decade, increasing from 76 million in 2001 to 103 million in 2011, currently accounting for approximately 9% of the total population, with projections indicating it will exceed 20% by 2050. The growing number of elderly individuals presents various challenges and shortcomings, and limited studies focus on this demographic’s nutritional status and activities of daily living. Therefore, this study aims to assess the nutritional status and its association with the activities of daily living among the elderly. By understanding these factors, interventions can be tailored to improve nutritional status and enhance the overall quality of life of the elderly.