Prevalence of food insecurity and associated factors among freeliving older persons in Selangor, Malaysia

ABSTRACT

@#Introduction: Older persons are vulnerable to food insecurity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of food security and associated factors among free-living older persons in Petaling District, Selangor. Methods: A total of 220 free-living older persons aged 60-87 years were selected by using the cluster sampling method in this cross-sectional study. Faceto-face interviews were conducted to obtain information concerning the demographic and socioeconomic background, food security, oral health, and psychosocial status. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis were used to analyse the studied variables. Results: The median age of the respondents was 65.5 years, and 19.5% were found as food insecure. There were significant associations between marital status (χ2=6.818), education level (χ2=6.242), occupation status (χ2=7.540), monthly income (χ2=9.940,), and oral health status (χ2=9.627) with food security status. Those with a low monthly income (AOR=2.449, 95% CI: 1.046-5.732), poor oral health status (AOR: 3.306, 95% CI: 1.387-7.889) and living in rented accommodation (AOR=6.218, 95% CI: 1.458-26.518) were more likely to be food insecure. Conclusion: Respondents with an income lower than the poverty line income (PLI), living in rented accommodation and poor oral health status face increased risk of food insecurity. A nutrition assistance programme is suggested to improve the socioeconomic and food security status of older persons. Regular oral check-ups are recommended to improve the oral health status of the elderly.