Poor Nutrition in Nursing Homes Leads to Adverse Outcomes

 Posted on March 31, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect

Nursing home neglect usually takes the form of either medical neglect, neglect of basic needs, neglect of personal hygiene, or social or emotional neglect. In many cases, more than one type of neglect is present. According to NCBI, nursing home residents are at significant risk for malnutrition as a result of health status, decline in physical activity, an increase in prescription drug use, decreases in food intake, and being served unappetizing foods or those that are low in nutrition.

Many nursing homes are understaffed and, in some cases, staffed with employees who do not want to take the time to ensure nursing home residents are eating and staying hydrated. By some estimates, as many as 85 percent of those living in a nursing home environment suffer from malnutrition, but only 19 percent of those were recognized as being malnourished, and only 7 percent received a dietician referral.

Unfortunately, while we want to believe that our elderly loved ones are being properly cared for and being treated with dignity and respect, this is not always the case. It can be difficult to separate symptoms that are consistent with growing older from incidences of nursing home neglect and outright abuse, especially if we do not see our elderly loved one frequently. If you suspect your loved one is being neglected or abused, speaking to an experienced Chicago, IL nursing home abuse lawyer is your best step to assessing and resolving the issue.

How Does Malnutrition Occur in Nursing Homes?

Malnutrition in nursing homes is associated with insufficient nutrition and a lowered quality of life. Malnutrition is defined as receiving too little nutrients to support a basic level of health. Elderly patients in nursing homes, particularly those who are confined to wheelchairs or have medical issues that make it difficult for them to feed themselves, are at least partially or wholly dependent on nursing home staff.  The staff in a nursing home must see that every resident eats on his or her own or that those who cannot feed themselves are fed and are getting proper nutrition.

Physical malnutrition can be caused by the following health issues:

• Certain chronic illnesses
• Dental issues
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Diminishment of taste and smell
• Recent hospitalizations
• Medications that interfere with the absorption of nutrients
• Bland foods in nursing homes that make them unappetizing

Mental malnutrition is equally prevalent in nursing homes and is the result of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and depression or anxiety. Almost 90 percent of nursing home residents who have been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s have eating difficulties that can lead to malnutrition. Neglectful malnutrition occurs when nursing home staff fail to offer sufficient food or do not monitor nutrient consumption.

What Are Some Adverse Outcomes of Poor Nutrition in Nursing Homes?

Poor nutrition among the elderly in nursing homes can lead to an array of health problems. When an elderly person is not receiving essential nutrients, like proteins, vitamins, and minerals, the entire immune system can be compromised. This leaves the individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses while exacerbating chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.  

Poor nutrition can lead to muscle weakness, which, in turn, leads to falls and fractures. When an elderly person is not receiving sufficient nutrition, they may experience chronic fatigue, leading to a further reduction in physical activity, which in turn causes muscle mass deterioration.

Dental issues increase among the elderly when they are not receiving proper nutrition, which then causes additional issues with eating. The mental health of an elderly nursing home patient can be adversely affected by poor nutrition, leading to memory loss, depression, and cognitive decline. Poor nutrition should always be considered when an elderly loved one shows rapid signs of physical and mental decline.

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyer

If your loved one appears to be losing weight for no reason and his or her health has taken a recent downturn, insufficient nutrition could be the cause. Speaking to a highly skilled Chicago, IL nursing home abuse and neglect attorney from Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC can help you help your loved one. Call 312-236-6324 today to schedule a free consultation.