Abstract

BAGNULO, Cecilia  and  PIZARRO, Nora. Spatial Distribution of Elderly People at Risk of Malnutrition in Bahía Blanca City. Rev. Univ. geogr. [online]. 2010, vol.19, n.1, pp. 119-138. ISSN 1852-4265.

The increase in life expectancy -at global, national and local levels- promotes the analysis of the specific demands of the population aged 65 and older. The purpose of this research is to set the basis for preparing intervention proposals, aimed at improving the quality of life of this population segment. One of the most relevant issues within this age range is nutrition. Since the main causes for malnutrition in the elderly has already been identified by health sciences, the aim of this work is to analyze the spatial distribution of psycho-social risk factors in the city of Bahía Blanca and to determine high risk areas for malnutrition. This work uses the data provided by the 2001 National Census of Population, Homes, and Housing and, by means of GIS mapping, draws up the spatial distribution of risk areas for malnutrition in elderly people. The diagnosis of these areas is a powerful tool for prevention through the design of social and health policy instruments.

Keywords : Malnutrition; Risk Factors; Elderly People.