Factors associated with nutritional status in a group of people in an early stage of dementia

Abstract

Background & aim: Beside cognitive and behavioural problems, nutritional difficulties and weight loss are often observed at the beginning of dementia disease. This weight loss has been hard to explain. But previous research has shown that it is not related to increased energy expenditure but rather to deficiency in intake at the beginning of the disease. The aim of this study was to investigate possible factors that may be associated with nutritional status among people in an early stage of dementia.

Methods: Fifty-nine individuals with perceived impaired memory were interviewed with three assessment instruments and a number of other structured questions.

Results: The results showed that predictors for nutritional status were: eating smaller portions, partly lost learned practices, and having a dry mouth.

Conclusions: Caring actions for this patient group should focus on support at meals and maintaining oral health.