DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF WEIGHT-LOSS IN THE ELDERLY

Weight loss occurs commonly in elderly individuals, and is associated with functional decline and mortality. A 10% loss of body weight over 10 years is consistently associated with increased mortality and funct ional decline. A 4% body weight loss over 1 year should trigger a sear ch for causes, which commonly include depression, cancers, benign gast rointestinal conditions, and medication toxicity. To evaluate weight l oss, physicians should distinguish between four problems: anorexia, dy sphagia, weight loss despite normal intake, or socioeconomic problems. In most cases, the cause of weight loss is identified by a thorough h istory, a targeted physical examination, and a simple laboratory evalu ation. Assessment should include evaluation of functional and nutritio nal status. Management should include correction of potential causes a nd nutritional supplementation.