Determinants of Healthy Food Choices among Community-Dwelling Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Learning Outcome: Identifying eating patterns and characteristics of food insecure college students, such as being older and more likely to live alone, may direct interventions to reduce food insecurity on college campuses.Background: Insufficient research examines characteristics and eating patterns of food insecure college students.Purpose: This cross-sectional study examined relationships among demographic characteristics, eating behaviors, and food security status in a multiethnic sample of college students.Methods: A web-based survey assessed participants' demographic characteristics, eating patterns, and food security status. A six-item version of the U.S. Household Food Security Scale evaluated food security status. Chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests analyzed group differences.Conclusions: Perceived barriers to food access influence dietary behaviors. Increasing access to fresh produce, cultural foods, and nutrition counselling/education are of interest to HHC clients. Understanding the perspectives of food pantry clients can enhance the effects of nutrition education initiatives and impact health outcomes.