The Dairy Council has been recognised by the Malnutrition Task Force for its strategy in addressing the growing problem of malnutrition in older people in the UK. The ‘Bring it Back’ strategy for nutrition in older people, co-written with NHS professionals, provides help and support for older people who may have lost their appetite or are feeling frail. This includes collectible postcards, information and posters that can be easily placed in community and health settings.

These materials were endorsed by the Malnutrition Task Force and shared at a private briefing in the House of Lords. They were heralded as key tools to help tackle this pervasive problem. Dianne Jeffrey, chairman of the Malnutrition Task Force, says: “Malnutrition in older people is a much more common problem than many realise, and with our aging population, will only continue to grow unless something is done about it. The work done by The Dairy Council is the type of thing we need more of to help solve the issue. We are looking forward to working with them as the campaign progresses.”

Ayela Spiro, senior nutrition scientist at The Dairy Council, notes: “Nutrition is important at all stages in life, but is particularly so for older people who tend to lose their appetite and so aren’t getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. It is everybody’s responsibility, from neighbours to the NHS, to recognise the problem and look at simple steps that can help.

“We have put together strategies for health professionals to help identify and tackle the issue of malnutrition in their older patients, as well as for older men and women themselves to ensure that their meals are as nutritionally dense as possible. We hope to raise awareness and to highlight how the nutrient richness of dairy can be used as a first line approach for the more vulnerable members of our society.”

The aim of the Malnutrition Task Force is to reduce malnutrition in older people in order to optimise their health, reduce unnecessary costs across the NHS, health and social care systems, and improve quality of life. The campaign officially launched at the end of March.