Who Are the Users of Vitamin–Mineral and Herbal Preparations among Community-Living Older Adults?

Abstract

ABSTRACTInformation on the characteristics of seniors who use supplements is lacking. A convenience sample of community-living seniors (n= 128) was recruited from 10 sites to identify factors associated with supplement use (vitamin-mineral and/or herbal preparations). Data on nutritional variables, health history, and supplement use were collected with an interview-administered questionnaire. APropensity to Use Supplementsscale was developed and was associated with increased use of herbal supplements. At the bivariate level, few characteristics distinguished users and non-users. Multivariate modelling revealed the Propensity scale and a low Body Mass Index to be factors related to the total number of supplements used. When individual scale items were examined at the bivariate level, food supply concerns, health beliefs, and a proactive role in one's own health were associated with increased supplement use. Initial results suggest seniors' attitudes towards supplements may be an important factor contributing to their decision to use supplements. Further work is required in a more diverse, randomly selected, older Canadian population.