Nutrition problems occur in every age group. In the elderly they seem to happen more often because of the physiology of ageing, growing multimorbidity, and worse social conditions. This article presents nutritional standards for seniors, methods of diagnosing malnutrition, and causes of swallowing disorders that result from concomitant diseases, pharmacotherapy, and social conditions. Some of the causes can be prevented or corrected at a family doctor practice level (for example – compensatory manoeuvres, dietary recommendations), and they are the main subject of this article. Diagnostic instrumental methods (videofluoroscopy, fiberoscopy), technical and pharmacological interventions that require engagement of specialists will only be listed.