Social network and dietary intake in community dwelling elderly women: A secondary analysis of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Over the last three decades, more emphasis has been placed on describing and explaining the specific nature of social interactions and the effects of these interactions on health. The elderly population, defined as individuals 60 years of age or older, especially women, has been of particular interest because of their increased risk for illness and disability with advancing age. Research from a variety of disciplines suggests that the social network (i.e. the structure of individuals with a specific, designated relationship to the individual in need), and its inherent social support, is an important factor for maintaining physical, mental and social health in all older adults. Dietary intake is an indicator of overall health; understanding factors that affect dietary intake provides clinicians with the opportunity to promote positive health outcomes and a positive quality of life for the older adult. This study examines the relationship between the social network including household size, frequency of non household contact with family/friends and frequency of organizational contact and dietary intake in community-dwelling older women using the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Dietary intake was measured by total food energy intake, body mass index, total dietary intake of selected vitamins/food components and self reported assessment of food security. Although several significant associations emerged, the study's hypotheses were not supported. However, this study provides a revealing description of dietary intake and the social network in community dwelling elderly women and suggests important areas for further research.