Consumption of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Among Older Adults in New Orleans

Barriers to fresh produce consumption are of growing concern, particularly in urban settings. Many studies examine this in relation to children and the general adult population; however, older adults' ability to access fresh produce may present a unique challenge. The present study examines factors related to fresh produce consumption in adults over 65 years of age. A random sample, address-based telephone survey of 3000 households was conducted examining access to healthy foods, shopping patterns and fruit and vegetable consumption in New Orleans, LA. Descriptive statistics were calculated and logistic regression models were fit to assess predictors of fresh produce consumption. Over one third (37.6%) of respondents were over 65 years of age. Adults over 65 years were less likely to eat 4 or more servings of fresh produce each day than younger adults (30% v 70%; p<0.000). Consumption of 4 or more servings of fresh produce a day was linked to being: female, white, well educated, having a higher income, owning a car and having self-reported good health. Risk factors for low produce consumption appear to function similarly in older and younger adults. Several variables associated with low produce consumption such as poor health and not owning a car were more prevalent in the elderly, but after controlling for socio-demographic factors, older age still significantly predicted reduced fresh produce consumption (p<0.001). Demographic variables that influence produce consumption are similar in older and younger adults. Being over 65 years of age is associated with reduced consumption of fresh produce.