[The relationship between psychophysical involution in the elderly subject and his nutritional status].
The aim of this study is the analysis of the relationship existing between the nutritional state and the parameters which indicate the capacity to lead a normal life in hospitalized geriatric patients. The nutritional state was evaluated using objective anthropometric parameters (Triceps fold--TF--, Brachial perimeter--BP--, Muscular and Fatty areas of the arm (MAA and FAA), concentration of seric albumin levels (SA) and subjective clinical parameters (atrophy of the temporal muscle (TA) and fat in Bichat's ball (BBA). The capacity to perform normal daily activities was analyzed, taking into account the capacity to eat alone, with help or using a naso-gastric tube, to walk unaided, with help or total incapacity, evaluation of intellectual functions and evaluation of dentition. Patients with a total absence or loss of more than 50% of teeth showed less MAA and FAA as well as a greater degree of TA and BBA. The same occurred when a greater degree of dementia was present. Patients requiring help to eat (either due to alimentation through a tube or with the help of a nurse) showed less FAA, SA and greater TA and BAA. Patients who were incapable of walking (in wheelchairs or bedridden) showed less BAA and FAA. Thus, progressive incapacity to carry out normal everyday activities is associated with a worse nutritional state in institutionalized geriatric patients.
Morales Rodríguez
P
P
González Reimers
E
E
Santolaria Fernández
F
F
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D009752:Nutritional Status / Q000502:physiology*; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology; D011601:Psychophysics; D013030:Spain
Relación entre la involución psicofísica del anciano y su estado nutricional.