Frequently asked questions
What is a dietitian?
Dietitians apply the art and science of nutrition to help people better understand the link between food and health. Further, they assist by encouraging dietary changes to achieve and maintain optimal health, as well as to prevent and treat illness and disease. Dietitians are qualified to understand food science, interpret nutrition science, assess individual nutritional requirements, counsel on diet for ideal health, or for various illnesses, perform nutrition research as well as instigate nutrition services and programs.
Dietitians apply the art and science of nutrition to help people better understand the link between food and health. Further, they assist by encouraging dietary changes to achieve and maintain optimal health, as well as to prevent and treat illness and disease. Dietitians are qualified to understand food science, interpret nutrition science, assess individual nutritional requirements, counsel on diet for ideal health, or for various illnesses, perform nutrition research as well as instigate nutrition services and programs.
What is the difference between a dietitian and nutritionist?
In Australia, there is a clear difference between dietitians and nutritionists. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) have often studied for at least four years and complete a qualification in human nutrition. They undertake supervised and professional experience in clinical nutrition, community health and food service. Nutritionists do not complete this professional experience as part of their study. Also, APDs are members of Dietitians Australia and are obliged to undertake regular professional development in order to maintain their accreditation. All APDs are considered to be nutritionists, however nutritionists without a dietetics degree are unable to assume the title of a dietitian.
In Australia, there is a clear difference between dietitians and nutritionists. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) have often studied for at least four years and complete a qualification in human nutrition. They undertake supervised and professional experience in clinical nutrition, community health and food service. Nutritionists do not complete this professional experience as part of their study. Also, APDs are members of Dietitians Australia and are obliged to undertake regular professional development in order to maintain their accreditation. All APDs are considered to be nutritionists, however nutritionists without a dietetics degree are unable to assume the title of a dietitian.
How can an aged care dietitian help?
A dietitian is crucial in improving nutrition among elderly residents, addressing their unique nutritional needs, and enhancing their overall quality of life. A dietitian conducts comprehensive assessments to understand an elderly individual's dietary requirements, considering their health conditions, texture modifications, medications, and lifestyle. Many elderly individuals may suffer from nutrient deficiencies due to poor appetite, digestion issues, or limited food variety. A dietitian identifies and addresses these gaps to ensure adequate intake of energy, protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
A dietitian is crucial in improving nutrition among elderly residents, addressing their unique nutritional needs, and enhancing their overall quality of life. A dietitian conducts comprehensive assessments to understand an elderly individual's dietary requirements, considering their health conditions, texture modifications, medications, and lifestyle. Many elderly individuals may suffer from nutrient deficiencies due to poor appetite, digestion issues, or limited food variety. A dietitian identifies and addresses these gaps to ensure adequate intake of energy, protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Why nutrition matters in our senior years?
Nutrition plays an incredibly important role in the overall health and well being of an older person. Research shows that a well-nourished older person has less risk of infection, fewer falls and fractures and reduced hospital admissions, etc. Statistics show that up to 70% of residents living in aged care are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. This is something we can collectively combat. Aged care dietitians can ensure residents meet their nutritional needs to live well in their twilight and senior years.
Nutrition plays an incredibly important role in the overall health and well being of an older person. Research shows that a well-nourished older person has less risk of infection, fewer falls and fractures and reduced hospital admissions, etc. Statistics show that up to 70% of residents living in aged care are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. This is something we can collectively combat. Aged care dietitians can ensure residents meet their nutritional needs to live well in their twilight and senior years.
