Factors associated with food insecurity among US elderly persons: Importance of functional impairments

Objectives. The authors examined factors associated with the food insecurit y of elderly persons in the United States and particularly how functional i mpairments were associated with food insecurity. Methods. Data were from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988-94) and the Nutrition Survey of the Elderly in New York State (1994). The authors used multiple logistic regression and a hierarchical l ogistic regression analyses to examine how functional impairments as well a s sociodemographic and economic factors contributed to food insecurity in e lderly persons. Results. Low income, low education, minority status, food assistance progra m participation, and social isolation were significantly related with food insecurity. Functional impairments were significantly related with food ins ecurity among elderly persons even after those factors were controlled. Discussion. Food security in elderly persons is associated with functional impairments, suggesting that food insecurity in elderly persons comprises n ot only limited food affordability, availability, and accessibility but als o altered food use. Food-insecure elderly persons experience multiple probl ems that prevent them from achieving nutritional well-being and seeking foo d assistance programs. Nutrition services should recognize and provide serv ices to cover those needs.