Abstract
The introduction of an additional meal in nursing homes may be associated with a positive impact on the BMI of residents with dementia.
Abstract
Background
Since 2010, many nursing homes in Norway have introduced an extra meal daily, with a hot lunch, and pushing dinner to later in the day. This initiative aims to reduce the long time interval between breakfast and supper.
Aim
This study examines how an extra meal affects the residents' body mass index (BMI) at nursing homes in Norway. Research questions include how an extra meal affects BMI among residents in the dementia unit.
Methods
We used a cross-sectional design to analyze data from residents over 65 years old in dementia care units. Both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were used to evaluate changes in BMI.
Results
Our study identified a modest increase in BMI among residents in the dementia care unit after introducing an additional meal. The results imply that incorporating an extra meal to meet residents' needs could support the maintenance of a healthy BMI.
Discussion
Our study reveals that the introduction of an extra meal resulted in a slight increase in BMI among the residents with dementia, which does not correspond with previous studies indicating malnutrition among these residents. The dementia disease reduces functional abilities, and challenges related to mealtime behavior, restlessness, and depression can lead to weight loss. The fact that our results show a slight increase in BMI at the dementia units may be related to these residents often being troubled with restlessness and not finding the peace to consume a full meal. By introducing an extra meal, the total food intake increases since residents still eat a little at each meal, and focusing more on accommodating each resident might have influenced the increase in BMI values.
Conclusion
The study indicates that the introduction of an extra meal has a positive effect on the BMI value of residents with dementia in nursing homes.