The nutritional behaviour of the elderly is influenced by physiological, pathophysiological, psychological and socioeconomic factors. In this master' thesis, we determined and defined the nutritional behaviour of the elderly and identified the nutritional circumstances and problems that they tackle in their day-to-day life. We conducted a survey with 229 seniors, men and women, aged 65 and over, and therefore obtained data on dietary behaviour and habits of the respondents. We focused on surveying functionally independent elderly people who do not live in retirement homes, as it is important to study the characteristics of functionally independent elderly people and, based on this, design nutritional programmes and activities. Based on the conducted research, we found that the elderly on average do not consume the appropriate number of meals per day. Also, diet of the elderly is insufficiently varied according to the recommendations. Elderly do not consume enough wholegrain products, vegetables and fish. Very important factors that influence their diet are taste and the impact that consumed food has on their health. The elderly have developed positive attitudes towards the impact of nutrition on health, but they still believe exercise, social interactions and inner peace are more important factors for overall health. By designing and implementing various informal forms of education, the elderly could be better informed about the importance of nutrition for health. This would motivate them to implement healthy eating habits and a healthy lifestyle, which affects the importance of maintaining an independent life also in the aging period.
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