Summary

Abstract

The physical, mental, and psychic equilibrium of old people is often precarious. Should they become ill and be obliged to enter hospital, their ability to compensate is quickly exhausted. In the hospital itself many problems arise, since in most cases several diseases are present (SCHUBERT). In order to identify the primary disease, it is important to be able to recognize the most typical pathological changes of old age and their combinations. In diagnosing and treating old people, one must bear in mind that various conditions of deficiency may also be present, due to both malnutrition and changes in resorption and metabolism. Patients who come from institutions tend in particular to be deficient in protein (NÖCKER, SWENDSEID) vitamins, and electrolytes (SCHLETTWEIN-GSELL, HEINITZ), while levels of some metals may be elevated. Many deseases of old age are due to a constant excess of carbohydrates and fats (BRAUCH and HEPP). BERG’s paper summarizes this combination of surplus and malnutrition and gives some suggestions for a sensible diet. A balanced diet is particularly important because the biochemical changes of old age are accompanied by declining efficiency in synthesis (BUDDECKE).