Nutrition for Older Adults: Perspectives on Dietary Guidance for Healthy Aging

Abstract

The world is rapidly aging. It is projected that the “young old” (i.e., 60+ y) population will double by 2050 and the “older old” (i.e., 80+ y) will nearly triple. Greater life expectancy has been accompanied by more chronic health conditions and disabilities, especially those that are related to diet and lifestyle. Although people are living longer, their healthy life expectancy has not kept pace, meaning that more years are spent in poorer health—thus, the need to identify targets to increase “health span.” Nutrition plays a critical role in aging healthfully. However, the aging process is accompanied by unique physiological, social, and contextual factors that impact the nutritional needs of the aging population—requiring more specific and tailored dietary recommendations. To examine the complexity of diet within the aging population, the Nutrition and Wellness Science Forum: Exploring the Journey to Healthy Aging was held in Washington, D.C. to focus on scientific evidence and research gaps surrounding dietary intakes and nutrient adequacy among older adults, as well as the role of nutrition in musculoskeletal, cardiometabolic, and cognitive health. Discussions also addressed the need for culturally appropriate dietary assessment methods and interventions that reflect the heterogeneity and diversity of older adults, as well as the importance of the food system. This review summarizes the forum’s key themes, discussions, and identified research gaps.