Protein Knowledge of Older Adults and Identification of Subgroups with Poor Knowledge

Abstract

The aim was to investigate the protein knowledge of community-dwelling older adults. A survey was conducted among 1825 adults aged ≥65 years and living in Finland, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and United Kingdom in 2017. Protein knowledge was measured with nine objective knowledge statements provided only to participants who indicated to know what the nutrient "protein" is (64.7% of sample). Demographic, socioeconomic and health determinants of poor protein knowledge were investigated using multiple logistic regression analyses. The sample was 49.6% female and 87.0% reported no walking difficulties. Participants scored best on the true statement "You need protein in the diet for repairing bones and muscles" (89.3% correct), and worst on the false statement "One meal per day with a good protein source is sufficient" (25.4% correct). Median knowledge score was 5.0 (scale 0–9) and poor knowledge was present in 49.4% of the sample. Males (Odds Ratio 1.57), those unable to walk for 5 min (2.66), not always making their own food decision (1.36) and having lower income (1.44) were more likely to have poor knowledge. Large differences were observed across countries. In conclusion, poor protein knowledge is present in about half of community-dwelling older adults. Communication strategies should be tailored to target the identified risk groups with poor knowledge.