The aim of the present study was to provide descriptive dietary patterns of home-living older adults, and to examine their association with sociodemographic and 'diet-related' variables, and health and psychological factors. Dietary patterns were analyzed using separately cluster analysis for men (N=151,Mage=72.72, SD=8.80, range=56-97) and women (N=251, Mage=76.74, SD=9.95, range=55-97) in 402 older adults aged 55 years and over. Cluster analyses showed four distinct dietary profiles for each gender. In older men, the four distinct dietary clusters were associated with any differences in sociodemographic and 'diet-related' variables, cognitive function, and health and psychological factors. Likewise, in older women, the four distinct dietary clusters were associated with any differences in sociodemographic and 'diet-related' variables'. However in older women, results showed that the cluster 1 "high fish-fruit-vegetable" was associated with a better cognitive function, a better self-rated health and no depressive symptoms, whereas cluster 3 "moderate ready meals" was associated with cognitive decline, slight depression, and poor perceived health. Results emphasize the interest to take into consideration health and psychological factors associated with dietary patterns to better target the vulnerability of individuals and enable an effective prevention.
Keywords: Cluster analysis; Dietary patterns; Health and psychological factors; Older adults.
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