Weight loss and nutritional considerations in Alzheimer disease.
Weight loss is a common problem among both community-dwelling and institutionalized older adults with Alzheimer disease (AD) and is associated with mortality, morbidity, disease progression, and poor quality of life. The causes of weight loss in this population are multifaceted and include loss of appetite secondary to deterioration of brain regions associated with feeding behavior and functional and behavioral problems associated with AD that make it difficult for individuals to consume adequate energy. The most common weight management strategy is to provide high-energy nutritional supplements to individuals at risk of weight loss. Supplementation is generally effective but tends to be least beneficial for those with the lowest body mass indices. Environmental and social interventions related to mealtimes and feeding are also important.
Smith
Karen L
KL
Baycrest Centre, and Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Greenwood
Carol E
CE
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology; D001066:Appetite; D015992:Body Mass Index; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D002149:Energy Intake; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012944:Social Support; D013851:Thinness / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D015431:Weight Loss