Our research has highlighted the following key conclusions:

• High Prevalence of Malnutrition: Malnutrition is notably prevalent among NDIS participants, particularly those with significant disabilities. This population is at a higher risk due to factors like reduced mobility, cognitive impairments, and complex health needs.
• Contributing Factors: Various factors contribute to malnutrition in NDIS participants, including:
• Chronic Diseases: Conditions such as dementia, cancer, and gastrointestinal disorders can impact nutritional status.
• Disability-Related Barriers: Physical, cognitive, and sensory impairments can limit the ability to prepare and consume nutritious meals.
• Economic Constraints: Many NDIS participants face financial difficulties that restrict their ability to purchase healthy foods.
• Lack of Nutritional Knowledge: Limited awareness or understanding of nutritional needs among participants and their caregivers can result in poor dietary choices.
• Impact on Health and Quality of Life: Malnutrition significantly affects the health and quality of life of NDIS participants. It can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, slower recovery from illness, reduced physical and cognitive function, and overall poorer health outcomes.
• Impact on Health and Quality of Life: Malnutrition significantly affects the health and quality of life of NDIS participants. It can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, slower recovery from illness, reduced physical and cognitive function, and overall poorer health outcomes.
• Role of Support Services: Support services, including dietitians and nutritionists, play a vital role in managing and preventing malnutrition among NDIS participants. Regular nutritional assessments and interventions are essential components of effective support.
• Caregiver Involvement: Caregivers are key to ensuring proper nutrition for NDIS participants. Training and support for caregivers can enhance their ability to provide balanced and nutritious meals, recognize signs of malnutrition, and seek timely intervention.
• Need for Policy and Systemic Changes: There is a need for policy and systemic changes within the NDIS to prioritize nutritional care. This includes integrating nutritional support into care plans, ensuring access to dietetic services, and addressing socio-economic barriers to healthy eating.
• Community and Environmental Factors: Community support and environmental factors, such as access to fresh food markets and transportation, influence the nutritional status of NDIS participants. Improving these factors can help mitigate malnutrition risks.

It is clear that addressing malnutrition in NDIS participants requires a multi-faceted approach involving personalised care, caregiver support, policy changes, and improved access to nutritional resources.

We are working hard at Eat Well Health to play our part.