Nutrient Intakes of Senior Women: Balancing the Low-Fat Message

Abstract

Older people may be at increased risk nutritionally because of chronic medical conditions, disability and/or physiological changes that interfere with consumption, absorption or metabolism of nutrients. 1 A number of Canadian dietary studies have identified low intakes of energy, zinc, calcium, Vitamin D and folate as potential problems in elderly women living independently. 2-9 Reduced consumption of red meat and dairy products-excellent sources of protein, zinc, calcium, and Vitamin Din response to nutrition messages directed at reducing total and saturated fat may exacerbate the problem. 10-13 This study examines the nutrient intakes of 52 senior Nova Scotian women based on six days of food intake data collected during summer and winter. METHODS Subjects The subjects were a convenience sample recruited by word of mouth referral. Signed informed consent forms were obtained from all subjects. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Acadia University. Seven subjects failed to complete the study because of death (1), serious illness (2), extended vacation (2), and unwillingness to continue (2). Data collection During an initial home visit, the women provided background information, self-reported height and weight, and a 24-hour dietary recall. Food models, and graduated bowls and cups aided estimation of portion size. The women were asked to record their dietary intake for the next two consecutive days. The two-day records were picked up by the interviewer and checked for clarity. Another 24-hour recall and two-day record was obtained six months later. One or two weekend days were included. The food intakes were coded by the interviewers, checked by the author, and analyzed by a program that used the 1988 Canadian Nutrient File. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS/PC+. 14

Food‐related health perceptions and food habits among older women

“…One mission for nurses is to ensure a high quality of the last years of a person's life. The health message of today, including a low-fat diet (Bogan 1997) and the need for women to be slim, does not suit healthy or frail older women. Here, health promotion needs to be differentiated.…”

A preliminary investigation into diet adequacy in senior residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: a cross-sectional study

“…Nonetheless, inadequacy of dietary intake seems common in seniors in both developing and developed countries. Inadequate dietary intakes of energy, folate, vitamin D, vitamin B-6, calcium and zinc have been reported in elderly people over 60 years old [ 24 - 26 ]. For example, recent studies suggested that more than a half of elderly Americans (≥71 years) had inadequate intakes of vitamin A and E, and over one quarter of US seniors’ intakes of vitamin B12, C, D and K, folate were below EAR [ 27 , 28 ].…”