A Study of the Diet, Physical Activity Patterns and Anthropometry of a Group of Free-Living Elderly People

Fraser, Carolyn (1993) A Study of the Diet, Physical Activity Patterns and Anthropometry of a Group of Free-Living Elderly People. MSc(R) thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

1. Information was obtained on the diet, physical activity patterns and anthropometry of a randomly selected sample of 47 males and 48 females aged between 70-71 years old, all of whom lived in their own homes in the medium sized town of Paisley, Scotland and all of whom continued throughout the study with their "normal" daily routine. 2. A weighed food record over 5 consecutive days (including the week-end) was used. The group mean daily intake of energy for males which approximated 1.3 X BMR was below the levels which are usually considered desirable by the FAO/WHO/UNU (1985) and DH (1991). On the other hand, the group mean daily intake of energy for females which approximated 1.4 x BMR met the FAO/WHO/UNU (1985) suggested adequate energy intake level but was below the DH (1991) level. For both sexes, group mean daily intake of nutrients, selenium and vitamin D were less than the suggested dietary guidelines DH (1991). Group mean values obtained for protein, calcium, iron, zinc, thiamin, riboflavin, nicotinic acid eq, vitamin C and A were likely to be adequate. The contribution of carbohydrate to dietary energy fell marginally below the desirable level. 3. Each subject kept a diary record of activities for 3 days which also permitted an estimate of total energy expenditure to be made. Generally speaking, most of the elderly engaged in some form of physical activity during the study period, this activity appeared to be of light - medium intensity only. Few engaged in activities of high intensity. Interestingly 59% of the males and 39% of the females considered themselves to be "more active" to "much more active" than others of their own age. Important sex differences on type of activity engaged in are also presented. 4. Little correlation was found between group mean energy intake and estimated energy expenditure during the time of the study, the results suggest that calorie balance is not achieved over a period of a few days. This is in accordance with the results of other workers in other countries. 5. Anthropometric data - bodyweight, height, skinfold thickness, circumference of upper arm, calf, waist and buttocks were obtained. Females were on average smaller than males, weighed less, had smaller waist circumference but thicker biceps, triceps skinfolds and greater percentage body fat than males. (Overweight) BMI (25-30) was common amongst both sexes 60% males and 69% females. 6. The findings suggest a need for further studies on the nutrition status of the elderly in the United Kingdom.

• Item Type: Thesis (MSc(R))
• Qualification Level: Masters
• Additional Information: Adviser: J V G A Durnin
• Keywords: Physiology, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Gerontology
• Date of Award: 1993
• Depositing User: Enlighten Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:1993-76383
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 19 Nov 2019 14:46
• Last Modified: 19 Nov 2019 14:46
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/76383