Final answer:
Geriatric failure to thrive is defined by the IOM as a multidimensional syndrome in elderly individuals that includes physical and cognitive decline, weight loss, and weakness, often exacerbated by chronic diseases and nutritional issues. Nascher promoted specialized care for the elderly to prevent such decline, highlighting the need for dedicated medical attention and follow-up. Malnutrition in older adults can be due to undernutrition or overnutrition, both of which negatively affect overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The IOM (Institute of Medicine) defines geriatric failure to thrive as a syndrome characterized by a decline in an elderly person’s physical and cognitive functioning. This decline manifests through weight loss, decreased appetite, poor nutrition, inactivity, and weakness. These symptoms often lead to a further deterioration in health, resulting in an inability to cope with minor stresses that could result in severe health crises or even death.
Geriatric failure to thrive is influenced by multiple factors, such as the presence of chronic diseases like arthritis, hypertension, and cancer, as well as nutritional issues, such as undernutrition or obesity. Considering these aspects uniquely affects older adults, proper medical care and long-term follow-up evaluations are crucial to address this complex condition. Unfortunately, geriatric failure to thrive can be exacerbated by inadequate systems to provide this level of care.
Nascher highlighted the importance of dedicated care for the elderly and combated the dismissive view of their health issues. In contrast, undernutrition, which affects many elderly individuals, often goes hand-in-hand with diseases that cause a lack of appetite or impair digestion. It's important to distinguish that malnutrition includes both undernutrition, caused by a lack of nutrients, and overnutrition, which can result in obesity and its associated health risks.