The present cross-sectional study was carried out to Assess Nutritional Status and the Mental health of 200 elderly persons, age varying from 60 years and above, residing in Talagau village, Lalsot block from Duasa district of Rajasthan (India). The nutritional status assessment was conducted using 18 items (30 points) Mini nutritional assessment (MNA) scale and depression assessment was done by using GDS (Geriatric depression scale). It was found that 92 per cent elderly persons were malnourished whereas 8 per cent were at risk of malnutrition and none were found to be well-nourished. Among the subjects, 7 per cent elderly persons had severe depression and 50 per cent had mild depression. Based on the present findings it may be said that the nutritional status and mental health of elderly subjects were very poor. Considering the high prevalence of poor nutritional status among the elderly, more focus on diet and possible nutritional interventions are required in rural India. There is a need to look after their mental health too.
Depression, Elderly, Geriatric Depression scale, Malnutrition, Mini Nutritional Assessment, Nutritional status
