Nutrition of elderly persons during a new coronavirus infection

Abstract

A new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) of a particularly severe course is more often observed in the elderly, this is largely due to age-related immunological and metabolic changes, as well as polymorbidity. In the literature, increasing evidence highlights how malnutrition negatively affects the immune system functionality, impairing protection from infections.Individual vitamins and trace elements play an important role in supporting both innate and acquired immune defenses. Many chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in the elderly are often associated with a high risk of malnutrition and a poorer prognosis. The main causes of malnutrition are limited mobility, catabolic changes in skeletal muscles, as well as a decrease in food intake, which can be further aggravated in the elderly. In this article the role of nutrition of elderly patients in the period of a new coronavirus infection pandemic is analyzed. Nutrition is a determinant of the health status of older persons. Inadequate nutrition contributes to the progression of many diseases, and also increases the risk of adverse outcomes, including coronavirus infection. Therefore, it is important to assess the nutritional status of patients infected with COVID‐19 at all stages of treatment. It is imperative to provide adequate nutrition, which will make up for the deficiency of micro- / macronutrients, primarily protein and energy necessary for the recovery of the body.According to modern recommendations, the management program for elderly patients with COVID-19 should include measures aimed at screening, preventing and treatment of malnutrition.