Primary care
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Social services to assist in improving nutritional status in older adults are reviewed. The social service interventions are placed in three broad categories of risk for older people to include poverty, social isolation, and dependency/disability. Each social service is identified and described to include eligibility and local resources. A social services intervention contact guide is provided as well as a state-by-stage aging services and resources directory.
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Nutrition risk can be assessed in elderly populations by evaluating such factors as food intake, income, functional status, socialization, acute and chronic illness, and use of medications. Nutrition screening must become an integral component of the health care services provided for all older Americans. Nutrition screening and early intervention are primary steps in the development of a system of health care that is affordable and accessible to all.