Canadian Malnutrition Awareness Week

More than 4.1 million older adults in Canada are at risk of malnutrition. Malnutrition occurs when there are deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in energy and nutrient intake. It includes both undernutrition and overnutrition and has serious impacts on health and quality of life.

This year, Canadian Malnutrition Awareness Week takes place from October 6-10 under the theme: “Unveiling Solutions.” The focus is on identifying strategies to address malnutrition across all age groups, with an emphasis on advocacy, research, and collaboration.

Advocacy

In 2024, the Government of Canada and the Province of Alberta signed the Aging with Dignity agreements, allocating $627 million over five years to support home and community care, caregiver support, workforce development, and improved quality in continuing care.

However, nutrition and food care are not mentioned in these agreements. This omission is concerning because:

· About 1 in 3 seniors living in the community are at risk of malnutrition.

· This risk increases to 1 in 2 seniors in long-term care homes.

Malnutrition can lead to:

· Muscle and bone loss

· Reduced mobility

· Poor wound healing

· Increased risk of falls and hospitalization

· Longer hospital stays and higher readmission rates

In response, the Canadian Malnutrition Task Force is encouraging Canadians to reach out to their Provincial Health Ministers and request that food and nutrition care be clearly articulated within the Aging with Dignity agreements. You can find a letter template here.

Collaboration

At Calgary Meals on Wheels, we are committed to being part of the solution. Since 2019, we have partnered with Alberta Health Services through our Going Home Program. In this

program, Registered Dietitians across Calgary’s four major hospitals screen patients at high risk for malnutrition when they are discharged. Those identified can be referred to us for meal support at home, ensuring they receive proper nutrition during recovery.

Good nutrition after a hospital stay helps:

  • Manage malnutrition

  • Promote independence

  • Reduce hospital readmissions

Similarly, our In Place Program connects with Social Workers in the community to provide meal support for older adults living at home.

How You Can Help

Your support makes these programs possible. By working together, we can feed our city and strengthen our community. Donate Now – Calgary Meals on Wheels

Brittney Edge