Search for: [Abstract = "One of the significant factors influencing both the Polish and the global health situation is the process of demographic and epidemiological transition of societies. An ageing society poses a major challenge to health care systems as it is integrally connected with increased demand for medical and care services.In view of the fact that older people are often afflicted by multiple diseases and disabilities, the priority of geriatric care should be to take action towards maintaining independent living amongst this population. Appropriate nutritional monitoring of elderly people, in particular those hospitalised in medical or i care institutions can significantly improve their health status.The objective of this study is to assess the influence of nutritional status on the health condition of elderly people staying in medical and care institutions.The research was conducted between November 2008 and July 2010. The institutions selected for the study included one hospital and five care institutions located within the Bielsko Poviat. The research proposal was accepted by the Ethical Committee of the Regional Medical Chamber in Bielsko\-Biała.The study involved people who were at least 65 years old on the day of the examination. Initially, the overall number of people hospitalised on medical ward and residing in care institutions, fulfilling the age criterion was 308. Eligibility for participation in the study was assessed based on the initial interviews and analysis of medical documentation. The following non\-inclusion criteria were implemented\:• lack of subject’s consent to participate in all stages of the study\;• active phase of neoplastic disease on course of chemo\- or radiotherapy\;• patient’s mental state hindering the interview or conscious consent to the study \(diagnosed with dementia\)\;• physical condition hindering anthropometric examination \(such as immobile patients, contraindication to lifting or amputation of both lower extremities\)\; • period of hospitalisation on the medical ward longer than 10 days.Ultimately, 202 \(100%\) people were assessed as eligible for the study, including 104 \(51.50%\) pe ople on medical ward and 98 \(48.50%\) people in care institutions.The study was conducted using the diagnostic poll method and the Paper and Pen Personal Interview technique. The questionnaire contained questions on lifestyle, socio\-economic status, diet, functional capability and health status. The study also comprised standard research tools including the Mini Nutritional Assessment \- full version \(MNA\-FV®\)\; The malnutrition risk scale \(SCALES\), abbreviated test assessing the risk of falling \(Tinetti\) and the Geriatric"]

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