Perfil sociodemográfico, antropométrico e consumo alimentar de idosos frequentadores de um centro de convivência no município de Itaqui/RS

Abstract

To investigate the sociodemographic and anthropometric profiles and food consumption of elderly in the city of Itaqui/RS. It was treated about cross sectional study, with old people of both sexes goers a community center. Sociodemographic and food consumption information were collected through individual interview. Gauging of weight, stature and arm circunference (AC), calf circunference (CC) and waist circunference (WC) were obtained for nutritional assessment. Results: Of 64 research participants, 96,90% were female, aged between 60 and 69 years (64,00%), white skin (51,60%) with an average of 4,3 years of study. It was found that most elderly were overweight (71,90%) and with accumulation of fat in the abdominal region (95,30%). CC showed that 98,40% were not at risk of malnutrition, while AC showed higher prevalence of normal weight (59,40%). Most elderly performed meals in their homes, accompanied and no difficulties for food. Average number of 4,14 daily meals was observed, and most reported daily consumption of fruits/juices, milk or yogurt. There was a lower frequency in daily consumption of potato chip/snacks, sweet biscuits, candies, soft drink and hamburger/embedded. Furthermore, among seniors reviews a low frequency of daily intake of vegetables has become clear, raw salads and beans. On a substantial percentage of elderly overweight, accumulation of abdominal fat and low frequency of daily consumption of vegetables, salads and beans in this study, reinforces the importance of nutrition education with the purpose of contributing to improvements to the health of the aged population.