People who have dementia lose weight for all the same reasons that other people do. Therefore, if someone is losing weight and is not on a diet, the first step is to consult his physician. Weight loss often indicates a treatable problem or a disease unrelated to the dementia. Do not assume that it signals a decline. It is important that the physician search carefully for any contributory illness. Is the person constipated? Has the person had a new small stroke? Is the person depressed? Depression can account for weight loss even in a person who has dementia. Poorly fitting dentures
