Energy and nutrient intakes of independently-living, elderly women

A descriptive study was conducted to determine the energy and nutrient intakes of 34 independently-living, elderly women. Data were collected using the 24-hour recall method, and compared to the 1990 Canadian Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI) for elderly women. Mean intakes of energy, calcium, and zinc were below recommended levels for the sample as a whole. The mean intake of folate was below recommendation for women in the age group 65 to 74 years. All other dietary intakes met or exceeded recommended amounts. No statistically significant differences were observed for energy or selected nutrient intakes by age (65 to 74 years old versus 75 to 83) or living arrangement (alone versus with other). Nutrition is an important aspect of health, and more nursing interventions can help elderly women to choose diets that support optimal health. Further comprehensive nutrition studies are needed to provide the relevant knowledge base.