Which of the following would not help prevent malnutrition in older clients with dementia?

The choice of caloric supplements with meals may not help prevent malnutrition in older clients with dementia because it does not directly address the underlying issues these clients often face regarding their nutritional intake. While providing additional calories can seem beneficial, individuals with dementia may have difficulties with appetite stimulation, taste preferences, or the cognitive ability to manage the consumption of supplements. Thus, simply adding caloric supplements may not effectively improve their overall nutritional status or address the complex factors contributing to malnutrition.

In contrast, optimal social supports play a crucial role in encouraging older clients to eat and maintain their nutrition by fostering positive dining experiences and reducing isolation. Similarly, providing feeding assistance can directly help individuals who struggle with the physical act of eating, thus improving their intake of nutritious foods. Making refreshment stations readily available can also encourage snacking and increase food intake as it provides easy access to food at any time, accommodating the often erratic eating patterns seen in clients with dementia. Therefore, focusing on comprehensive support systems and direct assistance in eating can be far more effective in preventing malnutrition in this population.