Food choices of institutionalized vs. independent-living elderly

Data on food intake of ninety-nine nursing home residents and of ninety-eight independent-living elderly persons with respect to twenty-two food groups were obtained by questionnaire interview. Nutrient intake was calculated by computer and compared with the 1968 Recommended Dietary Allowances. Fewer than half of the respondents in both groups had intakes providing 67 per cent or more the allowances for eight nutrients, and 35 per cent fell below this level for two or more nutrients. There were no significant differences in nutrient intake due to type of living arrangement. However, the nursing home residents had made more changes in eating habits than the independent-living participants, and changes correlated negatively with nutritional scores. Nursing homes might improve residents' nutrient intakes by adjusting menus and food preparation to conform more closely with residents' food preferences.