The MNA-SF is used as a screening tool to detect nutritional problems in which population?

• A. Children
• B. Adults
• C. Older adults
• D. Infants

Answer: (C)

The MNA-SF is a quick screening tool tailored to older adults to detect malnutrition risk. It focuses on six practical items that reflect how aging affects nutrition: recent food intake, unintended weight loss, mobility, psychological stress or acute disease, neuropsychological problems, and an easy anthropometric measure (BMI or calf circumference). The scoring helps identify those who are well-nourished, at risk, or malnourished, guiding whether a full nutrition assessment is needed. This tool is specifically validated for the elderly and is most appropriate for screening older adults in settings like clinics or long-term care; it isn’t the standard choice for infants, children, or the general adult population who typically require different, age-specific instruments.