Introduction: Decreased appetite can lead to lower food and nutrient intake and increases the risk of weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Appetite can be affected by a variety of factors, most commonly the physical and mental changes that occur with age. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma work is to determine what is important for the appetite in the elderly in the home environment or institutions. We examine what positively and negatively affects appetite, what are the specific food preferences, as well as to compare tools for assessing appetite in the elderly. Methods: We use a descriptive method of work, with a review of professional and scientific literature relating to appetite in the elderly. A systematic review of Slovenian and English literature was preformed. The literature was searched through the DIKUL portal in the bibliographic databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed and SciencDirect and we used Slovenian and English keywords. Results: After assessing the condition and identifying poor appetite, an individual plan is prepared to stimulate the appetite of the elderly. Knowledge of the individual's habits and consideration of his wishes helps to make this plan. Elderly people with poor appetite have different desires and awareness of what is important for their appetite. Offering a variety of foods, improving the appearance of taste and texture, serving smaller portions, following habits and traditions developed by the individual, eating in good company, pleasant ambience and clean dining room environment have a great influence on promotion appetite. Appetite is subjective, so it can not be accurately measured, but can be assessed. Clinical tools such as AHSPQ, CNAQ and SNAQ are used worldwide to assess appetite and SNAQ is most commonly used as it is short and reliable. Discussion and conclusion: Poor appetite can be a risk factor for malnutrition, which is associated with poor clinical outcomes and reduced quality of life, so strategies to improve appetite in the elderly are urgently needed. The work of a nurse is here very important, as she can recognize elderly people with poor appetite even before severe weight loss and take the right action. To identify elderly people with poor appetite she can help herself by using simple assessment tools that should be introduced in all clinical settings. Knowing the desires that affect appetite helps to create and set guidelines, to help the elderly with poor appetite and this can ensure quality aging.
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