Alarm bells are ringing over the rising risk of malnutrition among older people in the UK, as lockdown measures continue to take their toll. According to a recent report, dramatic increases in isolation and loneliness among this age group are compounded by restricted access to shopping and social services, leaving them vulnerable to malnutrition.
Research from Age UK, a leading charity supporting older adults, reveals that millions of over-65s are struggling to access essential food and healthcare during the pandemic. The organisation's analysis found that nearly 1 in 5 older adults (18%) have experienced food poverty, with many relying on food banks and other forms of support to get by.
Dr Hilary Evans, Director of Research at Age UK, warned that the situation is 'grim' and that the government and healthcare providers must take urgent action to address the crisis. 'We're seeing a perfect storm of isolation, lack of access to shopping, and reduced social services, all of which are putting older people at risk of malnutrition,' she said.
The charity is calling on the government to provide emergency funding to support local authorities in delivering food and healthcare services to older adults. Age UK is also urging healthcare providers to prioritise the needs of older people and develop targeted interventions to address the growing crisis.
As the pandemic continues to cause widespread disruption, the risk of malnutrition among older adults remains a pressing concern. With millions of over-65s at risk, it is essential that the government and healthcare providers take immediate action to address this growing crisis.