Isolated older people ‘at health risk due to low levels of key nutrients’
A recent study reveals that older individuals who live alone or are socially isolated may be at a higher risk of having insufficient levels of vital nutrients in their diets, including vitamins C and B6, folate, potassium, and magnesium. The research, conducted on nearly 4,000 UK adults aged 50 and above, showed that those experiencing isolation were more likely to have lower-than-recommended mineral levels, which could lead to various health issues.
According to researchers from University College London (UCL), inadequate intake of these essential nutrients is associated with increased risks of heart problems, cognitive decline, poor bone health, and skin issues. Professor Andrew Steptoe from UCL Behavioural Science & Health emphasised the importance of a varied and nutrient-rich diet for overall health, especially in older individuals who may lack social support and dietary diversity.
Micronutrients like vitamins C and B6, folate, potassium, and magnesium can be sourced from fruits, nuts, vegetables, fish, seeds, and legumes such as peas, beans, and lentils. The findings, published in the journal Age and Ageing, suggest that isolated older people may not be consuming enough of these nutrient-dense foods to meet their dietary requirements, leading to potential health implications.
The study, based on data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) involving 3,713 participants, assessed participants’ dietary habits through detailed questionnaires. Social isolation levels were determined based on living arrangements and participation in social activities. The results indicated that a higher degree of social isolation was linked to a greater likelihood of inadequate intake of the five key micronutrients assessed.
Interestingly, the researchers found that loneliness, as distinct from social isolation, was not correlated with lower nutrient levels, suggesting that the issue lies in the practical consequences of limited social connections rather than emotional loneliness. Notably, deficiencies in nutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin B12, mainly derived from animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, were not associated with the level of social isolation.
Co-author Dr Camille Lassale from ISGlobal in Barcelona highlighted the importance of a balanced diet with an emphasis on plant-based foods, nuts, seeds, and fish for maintaining optimal physical and mental well-being, particularly in elderly individuals living alone or in isolation. The study underscores the significance of ensuring access to nutritious foods and promoting healthy eating habits among older populations to support overall health and vitality.