Socioeconomic factors and dietary intake of elderly Missourians

Nutrient intake of elderly persons as determined by dietary histories based on food frequencies was examined in relation to various socioeconomic factors. A significantly larger proportion of women than of men had inadequate intakes for energy, calcium, iron, thiamin, and riboflavin. Housing, education, marital status, and work experiences were significantly related to the intake of one or more nutrients. Dietary ratings based on the Recommended Dietary Allowances for nine nutrients indicated that women, persons living in high-rise apartments for the elderly, and individuals who had recently retired were more likely to have poor ratings.