Health and Nutritional Beliefs and Practices among Rural Elderly Population: An Ethnographic Study in Western Spain

Abstract

Background: Demographic transition is causing an increasingly aged society, which has a significant impact on public health strategies. Increases in the size of the elderly cohort create a wider stratification and pose specific challenges. Nutrition and diet are one key issue. This study aims to describe food-related practices, beliefs, and representations of non-institutionalized older adults in rural communities in Extremadura (Western Spain). Method: The ethnographic-based fieldwork was conducted from January to July 2019. Empirical material was collected through different research relationships (semi-structured interviews and informal conversations) and direct observation in various locations in Extremadura―involving a variety of agents associated with different aspects of the nutritional process. Results: Data analysis revealed four major themes: (1) Limitations on choice and quality of food available; (2) food preferences and cooking methods; (3) the role of nostalgia in the construction of taste preferences; and (4) perceptions of what “healthy” food is and how respondents relate to the advice provided by health professionals. Conclusions: Nutritional choices among the group studied presented significant differences from medical advice―which was seen as a series of “bans” that did not carry enough authority to alter the symbolic value attached to their traditions.

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“…Topics emerging during informal conversations were also used in the definition of interview categories [ 42 , 43 ], and later on in the design of specific functionalities for the voice assistant. Finally, a field diary provided additional information on specific contexts and topics, helping establish a more complete picture of the participants’ experiences and needs—as observed in research projects previously conducted [ 44 ].…”

“…Topics emerging during informal conversations were also used in the definition of interview categories [42,43], and later on in the design of specific functionalities for the voice assistant. Finally, a field diary provided additional information on specific contexts and topics, helping establish a more complete picture of the participants' experiences and needs-as observed in research projects previously conducted [44]. Participant observation has been defined as a form of production of knowledge through "being and action"-through their active presence and engagement in the environment studied, researchers are attuned to registering activities and particularities that could be relevant for their research [45,46].…”