Soins palliatifs gériatriques : comment évaluer les besoins et décider des moyens de la prise en charge nutritionnelle

Ageing of the population is a demographic reality, the incidence of chronic pathologies increases with the advance in age, prevalence of the undernutrition of the elderly increases according to their health, conditions of life, degree of dependence. After reviewing the geriatric's nutritional status, we examine the place of evaluation as an element of prognosis and decision-making support. While techniques of nutrition and artificial hydration have no specificity, their implementation leans on the forecast, expected benefits, legal aspects in the respect for the wishes of the sick person and in the ethical approach.