Evaluation of Nutritional Behavior and Food Perspectives of Women Over 65 Who Received Calorie-Restricted Diet

Abstract

This study aims to conduct a qualitative study to evaluate the nutritional behaviors and food perspectives of the elderly, together with the healthy nutrition practice, the effectiveness and benefits of which are frequently reported in the literature. To study; in Karabuk province, Safranbolu District Health Directorate, who applied to the Obesity Polyclinic; a total of 25 volunteer women over the age of 65 who received healthy nutrition counseling services participated in the study. The research, which was designed using the semi-structured interview method based on the qualitative research approach. There were 25 female participants with a mean age of 68.0±1.2 years. While the average body weight of the participants was 86.00±19.00 kg; the average height is 163.00±9.00 cm. The average BMI of the participants was 32.30±3.26 kg/m2. Participants generally mentioned that the environment, culture, family, and friends they live in have negative effects on their eating habits and experiences. Our study compared to previous studies; suggests that while also accepting other health-related factors, such as mental and physical function, it is recommended to also address weight perception when done in a non-stigmatizing way.