Nutritional status and psychometric test scores in cognitively impaired elders

In a pilot study, we compared dietary and biochemical status for vitamin B1, B2, B12, and C and folate, iron, and protein in CI and CN elders grouped by MMSE scores. Biochemical evaluation of folate and B12 status was continued beyond the preliminary study. Intakes of all nutrients except folate exceeded 66% of the RDA. There were no significant differences among MMSE groups for dietary intake or biochemical values. Transketolase activity increased with degree of impairment, whereas measures for the other vitamins declined. Low or deficient LAA levels were found in 33% of all elders. Folate and B12 deficiencies, respectively, were found in 11% (12/109) and 4% (10/254) of the population. Very low values for serum B12 (less than 250 pg/ml) existed in 15% (37/254) of the subjects (31 CI; 7 CN). Moderately impaired elders (MMSE = 15-20) who used multivitamin supplements had RBC folate (p less than .003) and serum B12 (p less than .02) levels higher than those of subjects who did not use supplements.