Mega Doctor News
Malnutrition is often an invisible health concern, quietly undermining an older adult’s strength, independence and overall quality of life. Yet its warning signs are frequently overlooked or mistaken for a normal part of aging.
According to the Administration for Community Living, approximately 1 in 2 older adults is at risk for malnutrition,a condition that can contribute to muscle loss, frailty, falls, slower recovery, chronic health complications and diminished independence.
“Nutrition is about much more than what is on a plate. It’s the foundation for strength, independence and healthy aging,” said Chris Casso, MD, FAAFP, DABOM, a board-certified family medicine physician and Diplomate of Obesity Medicine with South Texas Health System (STHS) Clinics. “By understanding the risks of malnutrition and recognizing the warning signs early, we can help older adults protect their health, remain active and maintain a better quality of life.”
For seniors, proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining strength, supporting recovery and promoting overall well-being. Equally important is identifying the signs of malnutrition early, helping families and caregivers connect older adults with the support and resources they need before more serious health concerns develop.
The good news is that education and awareness can empower individuals to turn everyday meals into opportunities to improve health, preserve dignity and support long-term independence.
“Nutrition should be viewed as an essential part of healthy aging, not an afterthought,” said Dr. Casso. “When older adults receive the nutrients they need, they’re better equipped to stay active, recover from illness and continue doing the things they enjoy most.”
Importantly, malnutrition is not simply about how much someone eats.
Age-related changes, including reduced appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, medication side effects, chronic illness, and social or financial challenges, can all affect an older adult’s ability to get the nutrients their body needs.
“Healthy aging starts with meeting the body’s nutritional needs,” added Dr. Casso. “When families, caregivers and healthcare providers work together to identify concerns early, we can help older adults maintain their independence, reduce their risk of complications and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling life.”
To help raise awareness about malnutrition and healthy aging, STHS and Prominence Health are partnering to host the first Senior Living Seminar Series event of the year on Friday, September 4.
Entitled “Living with Malnutrition,” the free educational seminar will help participants identify the risk factors and warning signs of malnutrition, better understand its impact on older adults and learn practical strategies to support healthier aging and overall well-being.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon in the Texas Room at STHS Edinburg and will feature expert presentations, educational demonstrations and valuable resources focused on the role nutrition plays in healthy aging.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a community health fair offering level of care health assessments, including blood pressure checks and more.
“Our goal is to empower seniors, caregivers and families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about nutrition and healthy aging,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By learning to recognize the signs of malnutrition and understanding its impact, attendees can take meaningful steps to support better health, preserve independence and enhance quality of life for older adults.”
For more information or to register for this free event, contact Veronica Galligan at 956-821-9569 or via email at Veronica.Galligan@uhsinc.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System & Prominence Health |
| What: | Senior Living Seminar Series, Living with Malnutrition |
| When: | Friday, September 4, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| Where: | Texas RoomSouth Texas Health System Edinburg1102 W. Trenton Rd. Edinburg, TX. 78539 |
