IN BANGLADESH, the nutrition of elderly people often receives less attention than that of other age groups. With an increase in life expectancy, the country is witnessing a significant rise in its elderly population. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, around 8 per cent of the population was 65 or older in 2021 and this percentage is expected to rise in the coming years. Unfortunately, malnutrition, encompassing both under-nutrition and over-nutrition, is prevalent among older adults. Many undernourished elderly individuals face common chronic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Meanwhile, there is a growing prevalence of obesity in this age group, contributing to the dual burden of malnutrition.
Day by day, the number of extended families is declining while single-family households are on the rise, leaving older adults increasingly vulnerable. In reality, many elderly individuals in live in poverty or on fixed incomes, which significantly affects their nutritional intake and overall well-being. Limited financial resources and low social status often restrict their food choice, compelling them to rely on inexpensive, calorie-dense, but nutrient-poor diets. As a result, many elderly individuals do not receive the essential vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health. Prolonged inflation has worsened the nutrition situation in recent years, making it even harder for the elderly to access healthy food.
Additionally, many older adults have limited access to health care and often lack adequate dietary knowledge, leading to malnutrition and related health problems. Cultural food preferences significantly shape elderly diets. Many traditional meals are deficient in essential nutrients and reliance on staples such as rice and lentils, particularly in rural areas, may not provide the variety of nutrition needed for the elderly. Furthermore, improper meal preparation can diminish the nutritional value of food. In some regions, societal and cultural norms prioritise the nutrition of male family members over females, leaving elderly women with lower access to resources to meet their dietary needs. This neglect can lead to inadequate support regarding their diet, placing them at a higher risk of malnutrition. Chronic illnesses can also affect appetite and nutrient absorption among elderly individuals.
Research indicates that around 30–50 per cent of elderly individuals in Bangladesh suffer from under-nutrition, highlighting a concerning situation regarding their health and well-being. Common micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in iron, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12, are widespread among the elderly. These deficiencies weaken the immune system, increase susceptibility to infections and reduce bone density and muscle strength, potentially leading to falls, fractures, poor wound healing and serious health complications. They often arise from insufficient intake of a diverse range of foods and a lack of awareness regarding nutritional needs. Occasionally, the opposite situation occurs. Many financially stable older adults consume large amounts of expensive, unhealthy food, leading to overnutrition and health issues such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
Considering all the facts, addressing the geriatric nutrition situation in Bangladesh is somehow critical. While the challenges are significant, opportunities for improvement do exist. As we are officially moving towards being a middle-income country, the government must take proactive steps to tackle these challenges. People have high hopes for the interim government or any future government that may take over. We need a well-defined and inclusive plan in this regard. Important elements such as the budget, timeline, duration and the professional expertise are vital for ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Implementing specialised nutrition programmes regularly, particularly in areas with higher poverty rates or lower food production and availability, would be beneficial.
Although community-based nutritional programmes exist to some extent, their reach and effectiveness can be limited, leaving many elderly individuals uninformed about available resources to improve their diets and eating habits. Frequent public health education campaigns, workshops and seminars are crucial for creating awareness of the specific nutritional needs of older adults and for educating families and caregivers about the importance of balanced nutrition. Special attention should be given to the coastal areas as well as the northeastern and northwestern parts of Bangladesh. Besides, it is important to take the elderly living in urban slums into account. The Bangladesh National Nutrition Council and related institutions can be pivotal in this effort.
Collaboration among various government and non-governmental organisations, healthcare providers and local communities is essential for a meaningful change. Supporting local farmers, markets and food production can enhance access to healthy food such as fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains for the elderly. Where dietary intake is insufficient, recommending supplements of important vitamins and minerals, under the guidance of healthcare professionals, can also be beneficial. Overall, using print media, electronic platforms and digital channels to promote the importance of nutrition for the elderly can be an integral part of the initiative. Implementing these strategies can help to improve the nutritional status of older adults in Bangladesh, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.
Md Sakibul Hasan Sajeeb is a section officer at the BSMR Maritime University.