This document summarizes research on addressing undernutrition in elderly patients through improved dietary protein intake. It describes:
1. Current treatment options are often insufficient to meet protein needs, and even patients at low risk of undernutrition have inadequate intake.
2. Research found protein-enriched foods and drinks significantly increased intake for at-risk patients, helping more to meet recommendations. However, intake was still inadequate for many.
3. Interviews revealed elderly are often unaware of undernutrition risks and importance of protein. They are reluctant to change diets. Successful options must fit within current food preferences and habits.