Rates of malnutrition in long-term care according to MNA are approximately which range?

• A. 47-62%
• B. 10-20%
• C. 30-40%
• D. 70-80%

Answer: (A)

In long-term care, malnutrition is very common because many residents face chronic illness, dental issues, reduced appetite, medication effects, and functional decline. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) often identifies a sizable portion of residents as malnourished or at risk, with figures commonly landing in the mid-50s. The approximate range of 47–62% aligns with how frequently this screening flags nutritional problems in these settings.

Options that are much lower (10–20%, 30–40%) tend to underestimate the scope of the issue in this population, while a range as high as 70–80% would overstate it for typical LTC cohorts. This reflects why the 47–62% range is the best match. It also underscores why routine MNA screening and nutrition-focused interventions are important in long-term care.