Define Drug metabolism (Poly-pharmacy)?
As older persons are sometimes prescribed number of medications, care is to be taken, as there is reduction in renal and hepatic clearance. Medications that may have possible interaction with appetite and gastrointestinal function and electrolyte imbalance include anticonvulsants, antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, anti-arrhythmias, diuretics etc.
a. Psychosocial changes - is dependent on the integrity vs, despair of the individual and is also seen to affects the individual's health and nutrition.
b. Socioeconomic status (SES) - The nutrition has also been found to be related to the SES of the individual, which may change with retirement, and other health issues of the elderly.
The various changes described above influence the nutrient need and nutritional management of elderly.