Over 30% of community-dwelling Canadian seniors are at risk of malnutrition and only 25% of those receive nutrition counselling. Ethical screening emphasises the importance of optimizing nutritional status while results provide evidence needed to inform nutrition interventions.

To determine key malnutrition risk factors, education needs and preventative strategies for seniors (65+) in the Timiskaming District.

Patient demographics and completed electronic SCREENIIAB© questionnaires, received in Excel© from two Family Health Teams (FHTs), were coded then analyzed using pivot tables with the most frequently identified nutrition risk factors used to develop a focus group (FG) guide. Community-dwelling seniors were recruited directly (e.g., phone calls) or indirectly (e.g., social media) to participate in two 90-minute FGs. Responses were transcribed using Word© and analyzed thematically. The FG participants completed paper SCREENIIAB© questionnaires which were entered into Excel© and compared to the FHT sample.

The FHT sample (n=107) were 52% female (average age 75; range 65-91 years) and the FG sample (n=20) were 90% female (average age 74; range 66-83 years). Over half (58%) of the FHT sample consumed insufficient fruits and vegetables and 34% had low fluid intakes which was comparable to the FG sample (55% and 40% respectively). Barriers to healthy eating were produce cost, transportation, and access to public washrooms. Education needs included symptoms and strategies for chewing and/or swallowing issues, and understanding what constitutes total fluid intake. In-person group education sessions were the preferred method.

Despite a higher female:male ratio in the FGs, similar malnutrition risk factors were identified, suggesting reported barriers and education needs may inform a comprehensive upstream approach. Additional FGs and the full version of SCREEN© would capture potential gaps such as additional risk factors (e.g., protein intake).

Findings will inform program planning and advocacy to support seniors at risk of malnutrition.