Comparisons of dietary behavior, food intake, and satisfaction with food-related life between the elderly living in urban and rural areas

ABSTRACT

The present study was performed to evaluate dietary behavior, food intake, and satisfaction with food-related life regarding the elderly residing in different regions of Korea. The survey was conducted on 631 individuals over 55 years old in either urban or rural areas. The survey was carried out using a questionnaire including dietary behavior, mini dietary assessment, and a food frequency questionnaire. The average age of the rural elderly was higher than that of the urban elderly whereas, education level and economic status were higher in the urban elderly compared to the rural elderly. The intake of dairy products, meats, instant foods, snacks, and the use of nutrient supplementation were significantly higher in the urban elderly than those of the rural elderly (p = 0.000). The intake of vegetables was significantly higher in the rural elderly (p = 0000). Furthermore, the rural elderly were more satisfied with food-related life and had better balanced diets than those of the urban elderly. Taken together, the results of this study revealed that customized nutritional management and education for adequate meals in different regions should be developed and provided in order to improve the quality of healthy living for the elderly.