Scientists have learned about the deterioration of nutrition in the elderly when eating alone

A recent study by Flinders University showed that older people who regularly eat alone have a lower nutritional quality and are more likely to face health problems compared to those who eat in company. This was reported on November 19 by Medical Xpress magazine.

The study involved 80,000 elderly people from 12 countries. As a result, scientists have found that eating alone is associated with a deterioration in the quality of nutrition and a decrease in the intake of proteins, fruits, vegetables and meat, as well as an increased risk of weight loss and weakening of the body.

"Food is not just about the nutritional value it brings. Eating together is an important social activity that can affect appetite, dietary diversity, and overall well—being. We knew from previous studies that feelings of loneliness and social isolation can contribute to a reduction in food intake, but we still had to study the nutritional and physical effects of eating alone in older adults compared to other people," said Caitlin Wyman, lead author, practicing dietitian and PhD candidate at Flinders University.

According to the study, the situation during a meal can have various consequences. According to some analyses, eating alone is associated with a greater likelihood of weight loss and an increased risk of weakness. The authors argue that eating behavior is a potentially modifiable risk factor for poor nutrition in old age.

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It is also noted that eating in a company helps to strengthen communication, causes pleasure and can improve not only the quality of food, but also life. Alison Yaxley, a co-author of the study and a practicing nutritionist at Flinders University, emphasized the importance of integrating social and nutritional screening into the daily practice of caring for the elderly and primary health care.

"Simple questions about eating habits can help identify people at increased risk of nutrition-related diseases. By recognizing the link between social exclusion and nutrition, health professionals can provide older people with access to catering programs or sharing opportunities that may have real potential," she added.

According to the authors, community initiatives such as neighborhood food sharing groups, multigenerational nutrition programs, or local cafe partnerships can help reduce the prevalence of eating alone among the elderly.

Earlier, on November 4, Medical Xpress reported on the ability of social connections to form long-term memory. According to the publication, social interactions create not only memories, but also meaningful connections that define a person. It was also clarified that loneliness and prolonged social isolation are strongly associated with memory impairment and dementia.

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