Helping older patients to eat well.

Because increase in chronic disease and illness, and changes in physiological, social, economic, and psychological status may adversely affect food intake, it is important to assess the nutritional status of elderly patients. Canada's Food Guide provides a rapid screening tool for evaluating food intake and may also be used as a teaching aid. Nutritional goals in the elderly include preventing deficiencies or excesses and maintaining a desirable body weight. Diet can help manage nutrition-related diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Special attention should be paid to the social aspects of nutrition.