Under Nutrition among People Aged 60 and Over in Southern Benin

Abstract

The physical appearance of older people in the commune of Ouidah seems to be correlated with the economic level of the people. However, it is now clear that the nutritional status of older people is a key element for natural ageing and improved quality of life. Objective: To identify the factors associated with undernutrition among people aged 60 years and over in the commune of Ouidah in southern Benin. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical survey that took place between May and June 2020 and involved older people aged 60 and over selected by cluster sampling using a questionnaire and an interview guide. Their sociodemographic characteristics, health status, diet and the health system in their environment were explored. Results: A total of 271 older people were surveyed, 69% of whom lived in rural areas. The prevalence of undernutrition was 31%. Current occupation as a farmer (OR = 53.62, 95% CI = 5 54-518.34), shopkeeper (OR = 17.24, 95% CI = 2.15-138.21), or other (OR = 16.79, 95% CI = 2.06-136.54); a rural place of residence (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.21-0.76); and presence of anorexia (OR = 10.07, 95% C = 4.61-21.96) were associated with undernutrition. Conclusion: Undernutrition remains a nutritional problem affecting older people in the commune of Ouidah. Actions to improve their knowledge of healthy, balanced and diversified nutrition, and to strengthen the skills of health personnel in the area of food and nutrition for older people could reduce the prevalence of undernutrition among older people