'Failure to thrive' in the elderly: diagnosis and management.
"Failure to thrive" (FTT) is a term used to describe a gradual decline in physical and/or cognitive function of an elderly patient, usually accompanied by weight loss and social withdrawal, that occurs without immediate explanation. Both age-related and sociodemographic factors predispose the elderly to FTT. The most common etiologies are dementia, depression, delirium, drug reactions, and a few chronic diseases. The diagnostic evaluation of patients with FTT includes a review of the patient's activities of daily living, cognitive function, and mood; a targeted history and physical examination; and selected laboratory studies. Early recognition and management of FTT can reduce the risk of further functional deterioration, hospitalization, or nursing home placement.
Joseph M. Foley Elder Health Center, University Hospitals of Cleveland.
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Palmer
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D003221:Confusion; D003704:Dementia / Q000150:complications; D005183:Failure to Thrive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D012934:Social Isolation