Nutrient intake of elderly hospital patients

Abstract

A three-day food intake was recorded for 100 elderly patients who were subsequently interviewed to determine the relationship of income level, educational level completed, and sex of the person with the nutrient intakes of these patients. Three-day caloric and nutrient intakes were recorded and compared to the 1974 Reconmended Daily Allowances (RDA). Mean intake for a three-day period of seven nutrients showed patient averages met at least 100 percent of the RDA for all nutrients except calcium. The females had a mean intake of ninety-six percent of the RDA for calcium. The patients with the lower incomes had dietary patterns that were less adequate than the patterns for those with higher incomes, and these patients ate more carbohydrate and less protein than did the patients with higher income. Nutrient intake was increased for the patients as their level of education increased. There were no significant differences in the nutrient intakes between sexes. The males had a higher nutrient intake and had a higher percentage of protein in their diets than did the females, however, the differences were slight. It was concluded from the above results that certain beneficial changes in the study menu could be made. Especially important areas such as calcium and fat intake may need modification at some time in the future as more light is shed on these areas.