This study investigated the association between nutritional status, clinical frailty, and functional competence among institutionalized and noninstitutionalized elderly women aged 60-75 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. A total of 120 participants, 60 from old age homes and 60 from the community, were assessed using anthropometric measurements, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), functional assessments (Hand Grip Strength, Short Physical Performance Battery, Timed Get Up and Go test-TUG), and the Clinical Frailty Scale. Results indicate that institutionalized elderly women have a higher prevalence of obesity, lower hand grip strength, and more severe functional limitations compared to their non-institutionalized counterparts. Additionally, a significant proportion of institutionalized women were found to be moderately to severely frail, with a higher tendency towards sedentary lifestyles. In contrast, noninstitutionalized women showed better nutritional status, physical performance, and lower frailty levels. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve the nutritional status, physical performance, and overall well-being of institutionalized elderly women. However, the potential for improvement is significant, and addressing these factors can lead to a reduction in frailty and an enhancement of the quality of life among the elderly, ultimately contributing to successful ageing.
Ageing, Malnutrition, Institutionalized, Noninstitutionalized, Sedentary lifestyle
