Abstract
The study assessed nutritional status of the aged (>60 years) in Nsukka Local
Government Area of Enugu state, Nigeria. Specifically, the study assessed the
anthropometric indices, fasting blood glucose, blood pressure, nutrient intake
and determined malnutrition indicator score of respondents. Three hundred
and fifty-four respondents were selected from three communities by
systematic random sampling. Questionnaire, bathroom weighing scale, height
metre, measuring tape, M2 Basic Sphygmomanometer and Accu-check
glucometer were used for data collection. Data collected were analysed using
mean, percentages, t-tests and chi-square. P < 0.05 was accepted as the level of
significance. Overweight (28.8%), mild obesity (19.5%) and moderate obesity
(1.7%) existed among respondents. Prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 12.8%
whereas 10.0% had impaired fasting blood glucose. Severe and moderate
systolic hypertension existed in 5.0% and 26.2% of respondents. Mean energy,
fats, calcium and vitamin A intake of males and females were 2385.06kcal vs.
2343.41kcal, 78.01g vs 71.58g, 398.47mg vs 383.15mg and 524.76μg vs 421.52 μg,
respectively. Calcium intake contributed only 34.65% and 29.47% of the males’
and females’ (Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI). It is recommended that
family members should pay attention to the nutrient needs of the aged to
ensure adequate nutrient intake.