ABSTRACT

The study focused on feeding patterns and health status of the elderly in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State with the aim of determining their feeding habits, health status and identifying factors affecting the dietary habit. The participants (n=100) were individuals aged 65 years and above, recruited through residential housing areas, community meeting sites and church. Questionnaires were used to determine the general dietary information and factors affecting dietary patterns. Anthropometric measurement, which included height, weight, and arm circumference and triceps skin fold thickness were used to assess their health status. The mean values were compared with reference values derived from HANES 11 survey table (1971-1974) (Health and Nutrition Examination survey). Comparisons were made between the young elderly males and females (65-75 years) and older elderly males and females (76 years and above) using students distribution to determine the level of significance. Also comparisons were made on the actual body weight and desirable weight (optimum weight) to determine the level of significance. The results showed that the elderly of both groups had poor food habits. Their food choice was based mainly on starchy food, skipping of meals- either breakfast or Lunch and fruit servings. Long established feeding habits, ignorance, socio-economic status were indicated s factor for choice of food. The older elderly males were found under nourished ( result of isolation, low-socio-economic status poor feeding habit) when compared with the young elderly males. Among the females were found cases, overweight and obesity. There is need for extensive- nutrition education among the elderly and also intensive care for the elderly.