Effects of a Group-Based Behavioral Intervention on Dietary Behaviors in Older Adults

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the effects of a 12-week, behavioral nutrition intervention on dietary behaviors. Method: Inactive older adults (N = 50) were randomized to a 12-week, behavioral nutrition or physical activity intervention, delivered in a group-based format. Questionnaires assessed fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption, and fat- and fiber-related behaviors at baseline and postintervention. Height and weight were measured. Repeated-measures ANOVAs examined changes in dietary behaviors over time between groups, controlling for age, gender, and education. Results: Participants averaged 64.1 ± 8.4 years of age and had a body mass index (BMI) of 33.3 ± 7.5 kg/m2. Group × Time interactions were significant for FV consumption (p = .003), and fat- (p = .02) and fiber-related (p = .008) behaviors at 12 weeks. At 12 weeks, dietary behaviors improved significantly in the nutrition but not in the physical activity group. Effect sizes were medium to large. Discussion: A 12-week, behavioral nutrition intervention improved dietary behaviors. Behavioral interventions may be a low-cost way to improve dietary behaviors among older adults, potentially affecting population health significantly.