Malnutrition is a significant issue, especially among elderly and care-dependent individuals. Caregivers have various opportunities to recognize risks in a timely manner and to take or initiate appropriate measures. The authors first address the physiological relationships and risk factors for malnutrition in older age. They then describe the necessary nursing competencies as well as the possibilities and limitations in the prevention of malnutrition as a nursing service. All fundamental findings are presented in a comprehensive and clear manner, enabling a quick entry into the topic for researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field of nursing.