Anthropometric and biochemical markers for nutritional risk among residents within an Australian residential care facility

The risk of malnutrition is high among elderly population, yet few studies have measured indicators of nutritional status among Australian aged-care residents. To determine the relationship between nutritional status and bone density, hand grip strength, and the timed-up and go test, in a group of Australian aged-care residents. Anthropometric and biochemical analysis measured in subjects recruited to be part of a six month multivitamin supplementation study. One hundred and fifteen subjects participated (68% female). The mean (SD) age and body weight was 80.2(10.6) years, and 66.5(15.0) kg, respectively. Eleven percent were underweight (body mass index, BMI, or =30 kg/m(2)). Low serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D,