Nutritional Health Risk (Food Security) in Thai Older Adults and Related Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Thailand's aging population is growing, with urbanization leading to independent living for many older adults.
• Independent living increases nutritional risk and vulnerability to food insecurity among the elderly.
• Understanding food security is crucial for addressing malnutrition in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess food security among Thai older adults.
• To utilize the DETERMINE tool for the first time in Thailand for screening.
• To explore the relationship between health indicators and food security in seniors.

Main Methods:

• Employed the DETERMINE screening tool to evaluate food security.
• Administered the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) for cognitive function.
• Utilized the self-efficacy for physical activity scale (SEPAS) and a health literacy questionnaire.

Main Results:

• A moderate risk of food insecurity was identified in the study participants.
• Common factors contributing to risk included underlying diseases, social isolation, limited nutrient intake, and medication use.
• Food security showed a negative correlation with cognitive ability, physical activity, self-efficacy, and health literacy.

Conclusions:

• Thai older adults face a significant risk of malnutrition, especially those with low income and chronic conditions.
• The DETERMINE tool proved effective in identifying food insecurity in this population.
• Cognitive function, physical activity, self-efficacy, and health literacy are important factors influencing food security in older adults.