Fat, Frail And Fifty
Survey paints disturbing picture of an ageing population
A new study of the over 50s shows a worrying proportion suffering from illness and obesity and few, even amongst the 50-59 age group, participating in any exercise.
The study, entitled 'Nutrition and lifestyle of the over 50s' interviewed adults throughout Britain for the Nestlй Family Monitor.
Over a third of the sample of over 50s were suffering from arthritis or rheumatism, with a quarter complaining of high blood pressure, followed by sleeplessness (22%) and stress (18%).
The Nestlй Family Monitor assessed the Body Mass Index (BMI) of the sample of over 50's and found that a third (35%) were overweight and a further 16% obese.
When broken down further, the figure for the obese showed 9% of over 70s in this category, 22% of 60-69 year olds and 16% of the 50-59 group.
Those who are obese are far less likely to exercise, more likely to play cards and board games, and are more prone to suffer from physical problems, stress, high blood pressure, eyesight problems and diabetes.
According to Professor David Richardson, Head of Nutrition, Science and Communication at Nestlй UK, "Any new approaches to sustaining independence, health and well-being as we live longer must consider the creation of more opportunities for recreation and more active pursuits."
No breakfast
The Nestlй Family Monitor also examined attitudes to nutrition and appetite. Almost one in five (17%) said they don't eat breakfast most days and amongst those still working, the figure rises to 28%. This is despite the advice from health experts about the importance of breakfast.
Two in five (43%) of the over 50s say they don't want to eat as much as they used to. This figure rises as the person gets older, peaking with 57% of the over 70 age group as opposed to 34% in the 50-59 age group.
For the majority of over 50s, enjoying food is more important than eating healthily. Three quarters (73%) would not eat food they do not like simply because it is good for them.
Enjoyment of food does not increase with age according to the survey. Three in five (57%) of the over 70 year olds disagree that the older they get the more they enjoy food. The comparable figure is 42% for the 60 to 69-year-olds and 37% for the 50-59 year olds.
The lack of interest in healthy eating is borne out by over a quarter (31%) claiming that they do not get nutritional advice from any source.
According to Professor Richardson, 'The over 50s expect to live much longer, healthier lives without loss of strength and years of disability. Thus, their nutritional status and interest in and enjoyment of food become all the more important.'
Caring for the ill
The study also examined 'caring' and found that one in seven care for a relative or friend who has a long-term limiting illness or disability. Two in five of these say they care for this person every day. It is the over 55s themselves who are most likely to care for someone (22%).
'Getting key messages about healthy eating and active lifestyles across to the over 50s is a pressing priority in an ageing population where increasing numbers of middle-aged people will be caring for elderly dependants,' says Professor Richardson.
Notes:
For the Nestlй Family Monitor study on 'Nutrition and lifestyle of the over 50s' 543 adults were interviewed by MORI throughout Britain between 5 April and 23 April 2000. Copies of the study are available from Corporate Affairs Department, Nestlй UK, St. George's House, Croydon CR9 1NR or via www.nestle.familymonitor.co.uk
The Nestlй Family Monitor is part of a series of research studies into family life in Britain undertaken on behalf of Nestlй UK by MORI.
