Failure to Thrive Aged in the Nursing Home

摘要

The purpose of the longitudinal prospective study was to investigate the phenomenon of failure to thrive among nursing home aged through the use of a stratified random sample consisting of failing (n=25) and the use of a stratified random sample consisting of failing (n=25) and non-failing (n=28) groups. The time series design included multiple measurements of the variables (caloric/nutrient intake, body weight, functional ability, cognitive ability, and depression). Results demonstrated that failing subjects over time continue to lose weight and decline in both physical and cognitive function; while non-failing subjects maintained weight and function. In addition, failing subjects were consistently less physically and cognitively able and more depressed than non-failing subjects. Both groups consumed inadequate amounts of calories and other nutrients. Differences between and within groups were apparent through longitudinal and not cross-sectional analysis.