What condition is characterized by unintentional weight loss in the elderly?

Prepare for the CDR Gerontology Nutrition Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question is equipped with hints and explanations to ease your study process. Ace your exam with confidence!

The condition characterized by unintentional weight loss in the elderly is cachexia. Cachexia is a complex syndrome often associated with an underlying illness, such as cancer, heart failure, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is more than just weight loss; it involves a loss of muscle mass and fat, which cannot be fully reversed by nutritional supplementation alone. In elderly individuals, cachexia can significantly impact quality of life and overall health, making it crucial to recognize and address.

Unintentional weight loss, especially in the elderly, can have multiple underlying causes, including decreased appetite, malabsorption, chronic diseases, and metabolic changes associated with aging. Cachexia indicates a more severe underlying processes compared to simple malnutrition, as it often reflects a systemic inflammatory response and requires comprehensive medical management in addition to nutritional support. This makes it distinct from other potential conditions listed, which do not specifically denote the unintentional weight loss aspect or severe systemic involvement seen in cachexia.

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