Table 2: Risk factors for identifying those in need of nutritional support in the community
Davies and Holdsworth (1979)
- Consumption of fewer than 8 (hot/cold) main meals per week.
- Consumption of very little milk.
- Consumption of virtually no fruit and vegetables.
- Wastage of food - even when supplied hot and ready to eat.
- Long periods in the day without food and drink.
- Loneliness, depression and/or isolation.
- Unexpected weight change -significant loss or gain.
- Difficulties in shopping.
- Poverty.
- Indication of physical/mental disabilities - including alcoholism.
Lehmann's (1989) additions
- Mental confusion.
- High alcohol consumption.
- Chewing/swallowing difficulties.
- Lack of sunlight.
- Side-effects of medication.
- Poor nutritional knowledge.