Dietary Intakes and Characteristics of Two Groups of Elderly Females

Based on 24-hour diet recalls, the dietary intakes of 97 non-institutionalized elderly females were assessed to determine whether those consuming congregate noon meals had a higher intake of nutrients than their counterparts. Mean nutrient intakes approached 65% or exceeded two-thirds of the Recommended Dietary Allowances except for B6. Congregate meal participants had significantly higher nutrient intakes at the noon meals than those not consuming congregate meals. However, other than for vitamin A, the consumption of congregate meals did not contribute to higher total daily nutrient intakes. Socioeconomic, health, and nutrition factors were also assessed. Increased age was associated with lower nutrient intakes; increased education was associated with higher nutrient intakes.