A review of the effect of oral nutritional interventions on both weight change and functional outcomes in older nursing home residents

Background & Aims: The prevalence of undernutrition among older nursing home residents is high and has been associated with impaired muscle strength, functional limitations, reduced quality of life and increased health care costs.However, the causality of these associations is difficult to establish.The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on the effects of oral nutritional interventions on weight change and change in functional outcome in older nursing home residents and subsequently assess concordance. Methods: A literature search was performed, including randomised controlled studies that examined the effects of oral nutritional intervention on both body weight and functional outcomes. The level of concordance was determined by determining whether a parallel effect was shown on change in body weight and functional outcomes. Results: Of the eight studies included, six found a beneficial effect on weight change. Of these six studies, two out of four that included muscle function found a beneficial effect on muscle function while one out of four that included Activities of Daily Living found a beneficial effect on Activities of Daily Living. All in all there was concordance in five of the eight studies included. Conclusions: There is some evidence for a positive effect on oral nutritional interventions on function through weight gain. However, larger randomised controlled trials are needed. © 2011 European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism.