This calculator is for general information and education. It is not medical advice and does not replace the judgment of a doctor, nurse or pharmacist who knows the full clinical picture.
Why screen for malnutrition?
Malnutrition is common and often overlooked in older adults: it affects a few percent of those living at home and up to a third or more of those in hospital or nursing homes. It weakens muscles and immunity, slows healing and increases falls, infections and deaths. The Mini Nutritional Assessment short form (MNA-SF) is a validated screening tool that takes a few minutes and identifies people who need a closer look.
The six items
| Item | Points |
|---|---|
| A. Decline in food intake over 3 months | 0 severe, 1 moderate, 2 none |
| B. Weight loss over 3 months | 0 more than 3 kg, 1 does not know, 2 1 to 3 kg, 3 none |
| C. Mobility | 0 bed or chair, 1 indoors only, 2 goes out |
| D. Psychological stress or acute disease | 0 yes, 2 no |
| E. Neuropsychological problems | 0 severe dementia or depression, 1 mild dementia, 2 none |
| F1. Body mass index | 0 under 19, 1 19 to under 21, 2 21 to under 23, 3 23 or more |
| F2. Calf circumference, if BMI is not available | 0 under 31 cm, 3 31 cm or more |
The total is out of 14.
Interpreting the score
- 12 to 14: normal nutritional status
- 8 to 11: at risk of malnutrition
- 0 to 7: malnourished
Example
An 80-year-old woman who has been eating moderately less, has lost about 2 kg (4.4 lb) in three months, goes out, has had no acute illness and has no memory problems, weighing 130 lb at 5 ft 4 in (BMI 22.3), scores 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 11. She is at risk of malnutrition, so a full assessment and nutrition advice are warranted.
After screening
A score of 11 or less calls for the full MNA or another assessment, a look at the causes, such as dental problems, swallowing difficulties, depression, isolation, medicines or financial problems, and a plan: richer meals, snacks, oral nutritional supplements, help with shopping and cooking, and regular weighing. In the US, the Older Americans Act funds home-delivered and group meals for adults aged 60 and over.
Tips for measuring
Weigh in light clothing at the same time of day. When standing height cannot be measured, knee height or arm span can estimate it. Measure calf circumference at its widest point, with the person sitting, legs relaxed. A BMI that looks normal does not rule out malnutrition when weight has recently fallen, which is why item B matters so much.