What impact do nutritional assessments aim to have on Long-Term Care residents?

Nutritional assessments play a crucial role in the care of residents within Long-Term Care (LTC) facilities, primarily aimed at preventing malnutrition. By evaluating an individual's dietary intake, nutritional needs, and any barriers to optimal nutrition, care providers can identify potential deficiencies or health risks associated with poor nutrition.

Preventing malnutrition is essential because it can lead to a variety of health issues, including weight loss, weakened immune function, increased susceptibility to infections, and delayed recovery from illnesses or surgeries, all of which can significantly diminish the quality of life for residents. Regular nutritional assessments ensure that residents receive balanced meals tailored to their individual health requirements, lifestyle, and preferences, thus supporting their overall well-being and encouraging better health outcomes.

While increasing meal times, reducing food costs, and determining staffing needs are relevant considerations in LTC, they do not directly address the immediate health and wellness of residents in the same profound way that preventing malnutrition does. Hence, the focus on nutritional assessments is primarily about safeguarding and enhancing the health of residents through appropriate dietary management.