Action Plan for Seniors Living at Home: A Collective Effort to Combat Undernutrition

The Collectif is taking a significant step in the fight against undernutrition with the launch of a comprehensive Action Plan for seniors living at home. This initiative brings together various organizations and health associations to address the growing issue of undernutrition among elderly individuals, particularly those receiving home care. The action plan includes multiple activities spread throughout the week, aimed at raising awareness, conducting research, and providing resources to both seniors and caregivers.

Key Actions in the Plan

The Action Plan includes two main studies to address undernutrition. One study will examine the nutritional risks faced by elderly individuals receiving home care, identifying factors that contribute to undernutrition. The second study will survey home caregivers to understand their knowledge and perceptions of undernutrition, helping to identify gaps in care practices.

Additionally, a communication campaign will be launched targeting homecare workers to raise awareness about undernutrition and provide them with tools to better support seniors. A public awareness campaign will also be conducted in collaboration with several health associations, focusing on “Deconstructing Preconceived Ideas About Undernutrition.” This campaign will share educational visuals through various networks to challenge common misconceptions.

To further engage the public, two motion design videos will be created and shown in 900 pharmacies across France. These videos will tell the story of a senior facing malnutrition, aiming to raise awareness of the symptoms and risks associated with undernutrition in older adults.

Additional Highlights of the Action Plan

In addition to these primary activities, the Action Plan incorporates other important operations and resources aimed at promoting health and nutrition for seniors:

• Cuisines Ouvertes: A culinary masterclass and competition designed to enhance meal preparation and nutrition in residential care settings.
• The Olympiades: A series of fun and engaging physical activities tailored to the elderly, promoting physical health alongside nutritional well-being.
• Two Webinars: As part of the broader educational efforts, the plan includes webinars addressing key aspects of undernutrition and health in seniors.
• Three Guides: The creation of guides will offer practical advice and information to seniors, caregivers, and healthcare providers (with more details to be shared later).

The Importance of This Initiative

As seniors living at home are often at higher risk of undernutrition due to isolation, limited mobility, and chronic health issues, the Collectif’s Action Plan is a much-needed effort to protect this vulnerable population. By combining research, education, and public engagement, the initiative aims to create a lasting impact on how undernutrition is understood and addressed in home care settings.

Through these targeted actions, the Collectif seeks to raise awareness, improve caregiver practices, and ensure that seniors receive the nutritional support they need to live healthier, more independent lives.

How to Get Involved

Stay tuned for more information on how to participate in the webinars, view the educational videos, and access the guides. This initiative will provide valuable resources to caregivers, healthcare professionals, and seniors themselves, helping everyone take “small steps” toward the “big victory” of reducing undernutrition in elderly populations.