# Patient and Public Involvement in Malnutrition Disorders Health Research: A Methodological Systematic Review Protocol

## TL;DR

This study aims to explore how older adults and caregivers can be involved in research on malnutrition to improve support for vulnerable populations.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a methodological protocol for involving older adults as co-investigators in malnutrition research.

## Key findings

- The study will provide updated evidence on involving non-scientific actors in malnutrition research.
- A limitation is the difficulty in extrapolating results to other settings due to the specific focus on older adults at risk of undernutrition.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Older adults are particularly susceptible to undernutrition and conditions that can aggravate it, such as frailty and conditions associated with swallowing difficulties or dysphagia. To address these challenges, it is important to consider the perspectives of older adults and their caregivers, especially those with conditions such as frailty or cognitive impairment, as they can provide valuable insights on supporting nutrition in these vulnerable populations. This participatory approach requires structures formed by scientific research committees working together with other stakeholders, involving various actors at all stages of the research process. The aim of this study is to analyze the methodology for involving patients aged 65 and older with malnutrition or at risk of malnutrition as co-investigators in research. Methods: This protocol has been developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-P) checklist. A literature search will be carried out in the following electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL. Through the COVIDENCE program, the research team will independently review the different screening phases of the identified studies for possible inclusion or exclusion. Expected Results: This systematic review will provide up-to-date evidence on the use of non-scientific actors at different stages of research. The main limitation stems from the use of non-scientific agents in a topic as specific as adults with or at risk of undernutrition, which may make it difficult to extrapolate the results to other settings. The registration number in PROSPERO is CRD42024444374.