THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NUTRITIONAL RISK FACTORS, DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS AND A SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS IN A STUDY GROUP OF COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS IN POLAND

Abstract

Background. A significant percentage of older people in Poland experience a high nutritional risk, which is determined by various factors. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between nutritional risk factors, selected demographic characteristics and a socio-economic status. The SCREEN14 questionnaire was used to identify nutritional risk factors. Questions on gender, age, region of residence, place of residence and personal household structure were used to characterize demographics. A socio-economic status was assessed using questions on the self-assessment of a material situation, education, social activity and family relations. Based on a cluster analysis using Ward's hierarchical classification of variables, two clusters of dietary risk factors emerged. A Chi-square test was used to verify differences between the variables. A logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between the variables. Results and conclusions. It was shown that people belonging to cluster 1, described as "Weight gain and unfavorable dietary beliefs and behaviors", were more likely to live in small towns, alone or with a partner but without a family. Individuals belonging to cluster 2, described as "Weight loss and its perception and functional limitations", were more likely to have a high nutritional risk, were more likely to be aged 75 or older, living alone or living with a family (with or without a partner). Respondents with a low socio-economic status also belonged to this cluster. Decision-makers in public health policy planning should take into account data and indicators for nutritional risks and their determinants to increase the effectiveness of efforts to reduce negative changes in the health and quality of life of older people.