Nutritional Risk Among Urban, Community-Dwelling Older Hispanics: Influence of Demographic and Cultural Characteristics

Abstract

This investigation explored nutritional risk and dietary characteristics of older Hispanics (52 years or older) living independently in a large, urban metropolitan area. Fifty-nine participants (93% female) completed a 16-item nutrition assessment questionnaire, and dietary intake data were collected on 49 of these participants. Of participants, 65% were well-nourished, although 35% were at risk of malnutrition or were malnourished. Participants'diets were lacking adequate amounts of dietary fiber, vitamin E, folate, zinc and calcium as well as energy foods, protein, and complex carbohydrates. A culturally sensitive nutrition intervention to meet the needs of older Hispanics should emphasize adequate fluid intake and traditional food sources of fiber, vitamin E, folate, zinc, and calcium. In addition, knowledge of different types of carbohydrates and dietary fats should be incorporated into interventions that also provide opportunities for social interactions among older Hispanics.