@article{ref1,
title="Vitamin D deficiency associated with self-neglect in the elderly",
journal="Journal of elder abuse and neglect",
year="2006",
author="Aung, Koko and Burnett, J. and Smith, Susan M. and Dyer, Carmel Bitondo",
volume="18",
number="4",
pages="63-78",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is common in elders. However, little is known about the implications of vitamin D deficiency in elder self-neglect. SPECIFIC AIMS: To characterize a group of self-neglecting elders with vitamin D deficiency based on clinical, cognitive, and functional status. Participants. Forty-four self-neglecting elders referred by the Adult Protective Services. METHODS: Vitamin D status of the self-neglecting elders was based upon serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD). Demographics, cognitive, and functional characteristics of vitamin D deficient self-neglecting elders were described and compared to those without vitamin D deficiency. RESULTS: Vitamin D deficiency (25-OHD < 25 nmol/L) was detected in 16 out of 44 self-neglecting elders (36%). Self-neglecting elders with vitamin D deficiency had lower scores in the Physical Performance Test and higher scores in the Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills, compared with those who were not vitamin D deficient (p = 0.014 and p = 0.018 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is common in elder self-neglect. Self-neglecting elders with vitamin D deficiency have impaired physical performance and inadequate living skills, which can be potentially improved by treating vitamin D deficiency.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0894-6566",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}