Which of the following are risk factors for malnutrition in long-term care facilities?

• A. Dependence for eating, depression, poor intake, impaired mobility, insufficient staffing
• B. Regular exercise, high mobility, good appetite
• C. Adequate staffing and independence
• D. Excessive supplementation leading to overnutrition

Answer: (A)

In long-term care, malnutrition risk rises when a resident’s ability to obtain and consume adequate nutrients is compromised by functional and psychosocial factors, as well as the care environment. Dependence for eating means staff must assist with meals; if help is inconsistent or insufficient, intake drops. Depression can blunt appetite and interest in eating. Poor intake directly reduces nutrient consumption. Impaired mobility can hinder getting to meals, positioning, or feeding, further limiting intake. Insufficient staffing means less time and attention at meal times, slower response to needs, and less monitoring of how much is eaten, all increasing the chance of undernourishment. Together, these factors create a situation where energy and nutrients aren’t being consumed in adequate amounts.

The other options describe scenarios that tend to protect against malnutrition or address different concerns: regular exercise, high mobility, and good appetite support adequate intake; adequate staffing with independence reduces barriers to eating; and excessive supplementation could risk overnutrition rather than undernutrition. Therefore, the combination of dependence for eating, depression, poor intake, impaired mobility, and insufficient staffing best identifies the malnutrition risk in this setting.