Dietary Pattern Trajectories in Middle Age and Physical Function in Older Age

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Lifestyle factors in midlife significantly influence health and functional status in older age.
• This study investigates the connection between dietary patterns during middle age and subsequent physical function decline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the associations between dietary trajectories in middle age and impairments in physical function later in life.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 851 participants (aged 30-59) in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging.
• Latent class analysis identified dietary trajectories based on the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI).
• Physical function was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), with regression models analyzing associations.

Main Results:

• Two dietary trajectories were identified: 'greatly improved' and 'moderately improved' AHEI scores over time.
• Participants in the 'greatly improved' diet class had higher mean AHEI scores in midlife.
• The 'moderately improved' diet class showed poorer physical function (1.6 points lower SPPB score) in older age compared to the 'greatly improved' class (p = .022).

Conclusions:

• Improving diet quality during middle age is associated with enhanced physical function in older age.
• Dietary improvements in midlife may play a crucial role in maintaining physical capabilities throughout the lifespan.