[Food quality in the elderly population in Santiago of Chile]

Abstract

Introduction: With the increase in the elderly population of Chile, it is very important to evaluate the quality of food of this age group using simple and quick tools.

Objective: To compare the food quality of the elderly, according to gender and age.

Material and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 458 elderly subjects ≥60 years-old of Santiago de Chile. Each one of them were interviewed in their home using the Food Quality Survey for Elderly (FQSE). The objective of this survey is to measure the quality of the food and preparations considered healthy and/or unhealthy for elderly. Weight and height, was obtained from the control document of the elderly.

Results: Men consume a higher number of unhealthy foods compared to women (P=.01). On comparing ages, those over 80 years-old consumed less unhealthy foods (P=.01). The elderly obese showed a lower score in unhealthy eating habits and total intake score.

Conclusion: Women eat healthier compared to men, and better eating habits are observed at an older age, especially in men. Finally, on comparing nutritional status, the elderly obese are those who eat in the most inadequate form.

Keywords: Adulto mayor; Alimentación; Elderly; Encuesta alimentaria; Estado nutricional; Food; Food survey; Nutritional status.