ABSTRACT

 This study was designed to determine the dietary pattern and lifestyle factors that contribute to healthy ageing, among staff of tertiary institutions in Abia State. Survey design was adopted in carrying out the research. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the types of meal consumed by the staff of tertiary institutions in Abia state, the factors that influence the choice of meal consumed by the staff, the lifestyle behavior of the staff the health challenges faced by the staff and ways of improving healthy ageing among staff of tertiary institutions in Ahia State. The study was guided by five research questions, the study comprised of the total population of 1765 staff of which 300 sample sizes was used. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire, percentages were used to analyze the data collected, the findings indicated that the majority (31 %) of the respondent eat more of dinner than breakfast and lunch, it was observed that they skipped lunch because of time factors, it was observed that the majority (48. 3% and 40 .3 %) eat fruits and vegetable twice a day. Similarly, it was indicated that health is the major factor that influences their choice of meal. While, diabetes and overweight was the most common health challenges faced by the staff. Finally, the result indicated that adequate amount of sleep is the best way to improve healthy ageing among other options. The researcher therefore recommended an adequate amount of sleep, regular physical activities, and the staff should ensure that they consumed fruits and vegetable regularly with adequate diet.