Management of people who are underweight

Management of people with developmental disability who are underweight includes treating the cause (if identified), and any associated clinical problems or complications. Monitor the person’s weight and nutritional status, and review weight weekly, until the person gains a satisfactory amount of weight and the weight is stable.

If the person is chronically underweight, they are most likely also malnourished. Malnutrition can be insidious in onset and long-term in nature, but it is usually reversible with careful attention to what and how the person eats and drinks—see also Malnutrition. Improving the person’s nutrition will address some of the consequences of being underweight, such as fatigue, and enable participation in usual activities. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be required; see Vitamin and mineral deficiencies in people with developmental disability.

Appropriate referrals for management of a person with developmental disability who is underweight may include a:

  • dietitian
  • speech pathologist (especially if there is dysphagia)
  • occupational therapist or seating specialist
  • rehabilitation physician, gastroenterologist or paediatrician.

If the person has associated conditions (eg gastro-oesophageal reflux disease [GORD] or aspiration pneumonia), refer for specialist review.

Note: If the underweight person has gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or aspiration pneumonia, refer for specialist review.