Dementia, depression, and nutritional status.

Abstract

Dementia, depression, and Parkinson's disease are in themselves challenging problems in old age. Recognition and diagnosis are often suboptimal. In dementia, many contributing factors must be considered, including nutrition, but in all these conditions the effects of the cognitive, attitudinal, and motor changes can produce permanent and severe nutritional compromise. Yet many simple steps can be taken to prevent poor nutrition in these diseases, and the primary care practitioner is central to this process of recognition and intervention.