Library Bulletin – Journal Articles – February 2010
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OLDER PEOPLE
DEAN, Moira and RAATS, Monique M and others. Factors influencing eating a varied diet in old age. Public Health Nutrition Vol 12, No 12 - December 2009: 2421-2427
Abstract: Objective: To investigate the influences of resources and food-related goals on the variety of food choice among older people. Design: A questionnaire-based survey in eight European countries: Poland, Portugal, United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Italy and Spain. Subjects: Participants (n3200) were above 65 years of age and living in their own homes. The samples were quota samples, eight groups of fifty in each country, based on gender, age and living circumstances, reflecting the diversity of each of the national populations based on education, income and urbanization of living environment. Results: Hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that income, health status, access to a car and living arrangement affected the level of dietary variety. The perceived level of different food-related resources impacted the consumption of a varied diet over and above actual resource levels. Food-related goals contributed to variety of food intake that was not accounted for by the amount of material resources possessed or the social and other resources perceived to be possessed. Conclusions: Older people's variety of food intake depended on material resources (e.g. monthly income, access to a car, living arrangement, physical and mental health). However, in addition to these variables, the way older people perceived other resources, such as their level of appetite, their food knowledge, their perception of the distance to the shops, access to high-quality products, having better kitchen facilities, access to good service providers and support from friends and neighbours, all contributed to how varied a diet they ate.
POTTER, Charlotte. What quality healthcare means to older people : exploring and meeting their needs. Nursing Times Vol 105, No 49-50 - 15 December 2009 - 11 January 2010: 14-18
Abstract: Background: The over 85s is the fastest growing age group in England and a major user of healthcare services. It is vital to understand what quality healthcare means to this group. Aim: To investigate qualitatively what vulnerable older people value in the NHS and whether these aspirations are being met by policy and practice. Method: Face to face interviews were conducted with 20 vulnerable older adults, most of whom were aged over 80, and the findings matched with current policy and practice. Results: Nine aspirations were identified: face to face, personalised and flexible appointments; to retain control in their home; respect for property and belongings; company and the opportunity to be listened to; proactive healthcare and support; choice and control over daily routines; a connected relationship between staff and patients; maintenance of privacy in hospital; and joined-up care. Discussion: Gaps can be identified in each of these areas and the government, healthcare providers and professionals, as well as regulators and professional bodies, need to take steps to ensure policy and practice meet the needs of vulnerable older people. Conclusion: There are two main conclusions from this work: older people are more concerned about their needs being met than about who meets them; and if the NHS is serious about delivering quality it needs to listen to patients about what they want rather than making assumptions about this.
RIEBE, Deborah and BLISSMER, Bryan J and others. The relationship between obesity, physical activity, and physical function in older adults. Journal of Aging and Health Vol 21, No 8 - December 2009: 1159-1178
Abstract: Objective: This study investigated the relationship between overweight and obesity, age, and gender with physical activity and physical function in community-dwelling older men and women. Method: Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to analyze differences between normal weight, overweight, and obese adults (n = 821) above the age of 60 years. Results: Obesity but not overweight was associated with lower levels of physical activity and physical function. Within BMI groups, individuals who were physically active were less likely to have abnormal physical function scores compared to those who were sedentary. Compared to men, obese women had lower physical function scores, placing them at higher risk for future disability. Aging was associated with lower levels of physical activity and physical function. Discussion: The study illustrates the importance of avoiding obesity and participating in regular physical activity to prevent or slow down the loss of functioning in older age.