The Dietary Status among Mild Dementia Elderly Using the Nutrition Quotient for Elderly (NQ-E) in Daegu

Abstract

This study examined the food behavior and nutritional status of the elderly using the NQ-E (nutrition quotient for the elderly) to provide information on nutrition education. The survey comprised a questionnaire completed by 88 elderly people using welfare services for the elderly with mild dementia in Daegu city. The average NQ-E score of the subjects was 38.78, which was a low grade. The scores for balance and moderation were medium grade, whereas practice was scored as low grade. The moderation factor between males and females was significantly different when considering the balance factor in the BMI group. The balance scores and moderation factor showed significant differences in education level. According to the results of the evaluation by NQ-E, subjects require proper guidance and management to control their eating behavior. Continual and customized nutritional education for the mild dementia elderly is a necessity that will help to improve and maintain their nutritional status.