NUTRITIONAL STATUS, DIETARY PRACTICES AND MORBIDITY PROFILE OF ELDERLY PATIENT AT SPECIALIST HOSPITAL, BAUCHI
Abstract
The nutritional status of elderly patients is a critical determinant of their overall health and wellbeing. This study assesses the dietary practices and morbidity profile of elderly patients attending Specialist Hospital, Bauchi. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected through structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and medical records. The findings reveal that many elderly patients experience nutritional challenges due to poor dietary diversity, limited knowledge of balanced diets, and socio-economic constraints. Common morbidities identified include hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and gastrointestinal disorders, which are often exacerbated by inadequate nutrition and lifestyle factors. The study concludes that improving dietary practices and nutritional awareness among the elderly can significantly reduce morbidity and enhance quality of life.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.