Can living too independently cause malnutrition?

It's not uncommon for people who live alone (especially older people, and people who have recently begun living alone (due to death or divorce of a partner, children moving out, etc.) to eat poorly.  It can be depressing and difficult to prepare  balanced meals for yourself -- and easier to rely on prepared meals or take-out. 

not at all - ignorance will cause the malnutrition. if you know what youre doing, you'll be fine

It is not from living independently. Many live independently and eat appropriately.