Nutrition and Social Eating Habits Among Seniors Living Independently

Introduction. Nutrition in older adults is a topic of great concern. Maintaining adequate nutrition has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality, yet many older adults fall short of recommended guidelines for a number of nutrients. Furthermore, unintentional weight loss in the elderly is an independent risk factor for premature death. Objective. To further investigate variables surrounding nutrition in seniors at Heineberg Senior Housing. Methods. Data from an earlier health interview conducted for the Seniors Aging Safely at Home (SASH) program at Heineberg Senior Housing was analyzed. Following analysis, two one-hour focus groups were conducted with groups of residents at Heineberg to evaluate responses to interventions concerning general nutritional requirements and social eating patterns. Results. Poor scores on the interview's nutrition section were correlated with increased incidence of emergency department visits, falls, heart conditions, chronic pain, diabetes, and depression. In focus group discussion, residents expressed strong interest in learning about micronutrient intake and receiving individualized nutrition advice. Residents also expressed discontent with eating alone; many indicated interest in social activities involving food and felt such activities would increase nutrient intake. Conclusions. Based on our research, we believe encouraging residents to take a daily multivitamin with vitamins D, E, K, calcium, potassium, and fiber, increasing attendance at group meals, and offering individualized nutrition plans focusing on prevention of unintentional weight loss are likely to benefit the health of this population. Findings have policy implications for a growing senior population aging safely at home, and may be applicable to many other settings.