Nutritional status and functionality in geriatric rehabilitation patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Key summary points Aim This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to characterize the nutritional status of geriatric rehabilitation patients and its association with functional parameters. Findings Malnutrition is prevalent in a relevant percentage of geriatric rehabilitation patients, whereas body mass index (BMI) is in the normal to overweight range. Furthermore, data suggest that protein and energy intake is reduced and vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in this population. Decreased physical function is associated with malnutrition according to Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and MNA short form, whereas BMI did not show any clear association. Message Nutritional status is reduced in a relevant percentage of geriatric rehabilitation patients and associated with decreased physical function which emphasizes the need for screening and targeted interventions.