Rapid weight-loss and dementia tom gilbert a long-term study of the elderly has found that their average rate of weight loss doubles in the year before the first symptoms of alzheimer's-type dementia are detected. Rapid weight loss and dementia. Rapid weight loss in seniors signals higher dementia risk researcher notes it may be less a cause of cognitive decline than a sign of it please note: this article was published more than one year ago the facts and conclusions presented may have since changed and may no longer be accurate and "more information" links may no longer work.
rapid weight loss and dementia
2 body weight loss in dementia unintentional bw loss is a prominent clinical feature in some individuals with dementia [7–9]for example, data indicate that 30–40% of patients with dementia may experience clinically significant weight loss [10–12]body weight loss in dementia may be characteristic of reduced nutritional status, which is partially explained by a reduced food intake []. Some medical conditions may be behind weight loss in people with dementia. these can include constipation, depression, dehydration, thyroid disease, pain, chronic infections, and end-organ diseases, amongst others. oral problems. many people struggling with dementia and weight loss often have oral issues that affect their ability to communicate. It is apparent to me that weight loss is infact part of the progression with dementia. my mom has lost 30+ lbs in the past year and recently lost 6 in 2 weeks. she has never been a big eater, but we make sure she is eating 3 meals plus snacks, plus boost/ensure and an appetite increase med. and she is still loosing weight..