As a layperson I would like to submit a recent observation regarding my father's malnourishment which supports the findings of this article.
My 80 yr. old dad was recently diagnosed as having senile dementia. As he was confused, hallucinating and becoming increasing frail with each passing day. His wife alerted me about his failing condition. I immediately, booked a flight and made plans to look after him.
I was surprised to learn that much of his diet was comprised of fast food. Therefore, I immediately changed his diet. All meals became home cooked and nutritionally balanced. I also made sure his fluid intake was increased to the point of having him drink something every couple of hours.
The results were: that within 24 hrs. his hallucinations were reduced to having only one (and it was brief). Thereafter, the remainder of the week his mind became sharp and clear with zero hallucinations. It was amazing to see the transformation occur so quickly.
Because of his age his was automatically diagnosed as having senile dementia...it never occurred to the doctors that his diet and dehydration may be cause of his confusion and hallucinations. Dad was simply malnourished and dehydrated.
Therefore, since I live out-of-state, my solution was to contact and begin the "Meals on Wheels" program for him. This way I can insure malnutrition will not occur again.