Investigation of Older Adults' Perspectives on Nutrition and Food Availability Processes with a Community-Based Approach

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to investigate the attitudes of older adults towards nutrition and food availability processes and to offer solutions with a community-based approach to these attitudes. Material and Method: This qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological design. Sixteen older adults (8 women and 8 men) aged 65-80 years participated in the study. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with the participants on an online platform. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and presented in 3 themes (dietary preferences, attitudes towards food access and future expectations about nutrition) and 5 sub-themes (food consumption habits and food choice, attitudes towards food choice, attitudes towards food waste, attitudes towards food shopping). Results: According to the findings of the study, the majority of the participants prepared meals at home, ate two meals a day and paid attention to consume vegetables, fruits and meat products on a weekly basis. However, it was concluded that economic inadequacies limit food purchasing power and food choices are mostly shaped by price-performance balance. Participants were sensitive about paying attention to the expiration date; however, knowledge-based behaviors such as label reading and sustainable packaging preference were found to be at a more limited level. Although conscious attitudes towards preventing food waste are widespread, it was stated that some products are given up due to budget constraints, despite acting in a planned manner during the shopping process. It was found that the main expectations of the participants regarding nutrition were concentrated on increasing their pensions, ensuring access to affordable food, and being able to consume more meat and meat products in particular. Conclusion: This study found that older adults generally make informed food choices, but are forced to be price-oriented due to economic constraints, suggesting the need for community-based interventions in these areas.

Keywords

• Older adults
• nutrition attitudes
• food access
• food choice
• community-based approach

Kaynakça

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