We have partnered with Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust to support those at risk of malnutrition!

Together we aim to raise awareness, increase confidence and improve understanding of how to seek support to help prevent under-nutrition and dehydration for older people in Lancashire.

Anne Oliver, Our Community Engagement Manager said:

“Malnutrition isn’t talked about enough and the impacts of being malnourished or dehydrated can be quite life threatening, even more so for older people. By partnering with Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust we hope to reach more older people and get the message out there.”

Over the next few months, Anne and the wider team will be promoting the campaign at local events and to older people across Lancashire. If you are concerned about weight-loss or dehydration then please get in touch by calling, 0300 303 1234 or advice@ageuklancs.org.uk for advice and support.

Below are some of the stats and supporting information:

• 10% of people aged 65 or above (1 million in the UK) are malnourished. Read the Age UK leaflets for more information about Healthy Living and Staying Cool in a Heatwave.

• 20% of older people are dehydrated, which rises to 47% for those who have had a fall. It is vital to stay hydrated over the summer and beyond so click here to read the Greater Manchester Nutrition & Hydration flyer and learn more about hydration and weight-loss.

• 1 in 3 of people over the age of 65 are at risk of malnutrition related admission to hospital. Visit the Malnutrition Task Force website for more information and resources to help you, your family members or clients when dealing with malnutrition.

• “People can become malnourished if they don’t eat enough for two to five days” Learn more about what you can do if you feel undernourished or dehydrated by reading the Age Friendly Salford Nutrition and Hydration Conversations: How to Guide.