Dietary Changes in Older Americans From 1977 to 1996: Implications for Dietary Quality

Older people are a rapidly growing segment of the U.S. population. In 1996 persons over age 65 made up 12 percent of the population. As a result, more attention is being paid to their nutritional well-being and health, particularly regarding the possible link between nutrition and the development of chronic disease. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) 1977-78 Nationwide Food Consumption Survey and the 1989-91 and 1994-96 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals were used to examine the dietary quality of Americans over age 65 and to evaluate changes in their food and nutrient intakes from 1977-78 to 1994-96. Results showed that the largest changes were decreased consumption of whole milk, followed by red meat and eggs, and increased consumption of sweetened beverages, followed by grain mixtures and snacks, and reduced-fat milks. In general, the same nutrients were below the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) during both periods. In 1994-96, intakes of vitamin E and zinc were below the RDA for men and women. Future increases in the consumption of whole grains, nonfat or reduced-fat milks, and vegetables and decreases in sweetened beverages and fats will help improve overall diet quality and help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with poor eating patterns.