Association between nutritional status and mental health among elderly in community health screenings: a cross sectional study

Malaysia’s elderly population is projected to reach 15% by 2030. Nutritional status significantly impacts elderly health, with malnutrition linked to depression, anxiety and stress. This study assessed mental health problems and their associations with nutritional status among elderly individuals in Malaysia attending community health screenings. A cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly participants selected through convenience sampling method from four community health screenings in Kuala Selangor District (June–October 2024). Sociodemographic details, nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, MNA®-SF), and mental health problems (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21, DASS-21) were obtained. Screening tools were used to assess nutritional and mental health status. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine the associations between nutritional status and mental health problems. Among 361 elderly participants, the prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, and stress were 12.7%, 9.4%, and 4.2%, respectively. At risk of malnutrition significantly increased the odds of depression (AOR = 10.94, 95% CI = 4.35–27.52), anxiety (AOR = 11.16, 95% CI = 4.10–30.41), and stress (AOR = 5.03, 95% CI = 1.55–16.34), whereas malnutrition increased the odds of depression (AOR = 45.61, 95% CI = 13.20–157.61) and anxiety (AOR = 17.80, 95% CI = 4.93–64.32), although confidence intervals were wide. Female sex and less social engagement were associated with depression. Being a smoker or ex-smoker and having less physical activity were associated with anxiety. Finally, retirees and having sleeping issues were associated with both depression and anxiety. Nutritional status is strongly associated with of depression, anxiety, and stress in elderly individuals. Early identification, further assessment, and targeted interventions are crucial for improving mental well-being in this population.