Approximately one-third to onehalf of the health problems older people encounter are indirectly or directly related to dietary lacks. The need to identify risk factors and indicators of poor nutritional status in older caregivers is critical. Caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD) experience changes in lifestyle imposed by the stress and health risks associated with the caregiving role. Nutritional needs, requirements, and behaviors of older caregivers were addressed in this study. The study was conducted to look at how the stress of spousal caregiving may result in possible neglect of the caregiver's own nutritional health. The dietary intake patterns and intake of nutrients of those caring for persons with ADRD were examined. The results of the study indicate that every caregiver support group should provide nutritional counseling for all participants. Suggestions for nutritional self-improvement and its relationship to healthy caregiving/coping skills are made.
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