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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Cognitive function, body weight and body composition in geriatric patients.
R Wirth1, J M Bauer, C C Sieber
1Klinik für Akutgeriatrie, St.-Marien-Hospital Borken GmbH, 46322 Borken, Germany. rainer.wirth@hospital-borken.de
Zeitschrift Fur Gerontologie Und Geriatrie
|February 24, 2007
Summary
Cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients is linked to significant weight loss, particularly impacting fat mass in women and fat-free mass in men. Early screening for weight loss and malnutrition is crucial for nutritional intervention.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Weight loss is common in dementia syndromes, worsening prognosis in elderly patients.
- Understanding body composition changes is vital for managing cognitive decline.
- Previous studies highlight the link between dementia and weight loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate body weight and composition in relation to cognitive function and gender in geriatric patients.
- To determine the extent of weight loss and its correlation with cognitive impairment severity.
- To explore gender-specific differences in body composition changes associated with cognitive dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cross-sectional study of 1575 geriatric patients.
- Bioelectric impedance analysis used to determine fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM).
- Cognitive function assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores.
Main Results:
- Severe cognitive dysfunction (MMSE<11) correlated with lower body weight, BMI, FM, and fat mass index (FMI).
- Fat-free mass (FFM) showed a non-significant decrease in severely cognitively impaired subjects.
- Gender analysis revealed females lost more weight and predominantly FM, while males lost more FFM.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive dysfunction leads to substantial weight loss, with severity correlating to impairment.
- Gender-specific differences in body composition loss (FM vs. FFM) are evident in patients with cognitive dysfunction.
- Regular screening for weight loss and malnutrition in patients with cognitive dysfunction is recommended for early nutritional intervention.
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