| This study was designed to compare the actual food consumption to estimated needs of calories, protein, and fluid to determine if individuals with Alzheimer's disease adequately met their baseline nutrient needs. Body weights and significant weight changes of subjects were also evaluated by the researcher. The sample consisted of 33 subjects with Alzheimer's disease, nine males and 24 females. The mean age of subjects was 85 years. Results showed that subjects did not adequately consume enough calories, protein, and fluid to meet their estimated needs and results were statistically significant (p < .05). Thirteen subjects (39.4%) were underweight, 12 (36.4%) were at a desirable weight, and eight (24.2%) were overweight. There were only seven (21.2%) significant weight changes in this study, five of which were significant weight losses and two of which were significant weight gains. |
