TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2006//
TI  - Vitamin D deficiency associated with self-neglect in the elderly
JO  - Journal of elder abuse and neglect
A1  - Aung, Koko
A1  - Burnett, J.
A1  - Smith, Susan M.
A1  - Dyer, Carmel Bitondo
SP  - 63
EP  - 78
VL  - 18
IS  - 4
N2  - 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>
LA  - en
SN  - 0894-6566
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/
ID  - ref1
ER  -