Adherence to food and nutrition guidelines in community dwelling older adults living in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
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Date
2022
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Massey University
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Abstract
Aim and objectives: The aim of this research was to determine the level of adherence to food and nutrition guidelines in community dwelling older adults living in New Zealand using data from the Researching Eating, Activity and Cognitive Health (REACH) study. The objectives of this research were to compare dietary intakes of participants against age and sex specific food and nutrition guidelines and Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs). Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected from community dwelling older adults (n=371) aged 65-74 years between 2018-2019. Participants completed a health and demographic questionnaire and a four-day food record as part of the REACH study. Completed data (n=330) were analysed and compared with New Zealand food and nutrition guidelines including recommended food group servings (RFGS) and NRVs for older adults. Results: Less than 50% of overall participants adhered to RFGS for fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products. Protein was the most adhered to RFGS (54% of males, 58% of females) while dairy products were the least adhered to (11% of males, 1% of females). Nutrient Reference Values (estimated average requirement (EAR) or adequate intake (AI)) were generally well adhered to (>50% adherence) except for calcium (49% of males, 23% of females). Adherence to acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges (AMDR) was low (<50%) for total fat and carbohydrates. Protein was the most adhered to AMDR (70% of males, 76% of females), while the recommended limit for saturated fat was the least adhered to (19% of males, 16% of females). Overall, participants had low adherence to food and nutrition guidelines. Conclusion: This research identified that the community dwelling older adults who participated in this research had generally low adherence to food and nutrition guidelines. As poor nutritional status and dietary intake has been directly associated with poor health outcomes, especially in older adults, these findings highlight the need for further investigation of adherence to food and nutrition guidelines using a sample which is representative of the New Zealand older adult population.