Europe’s population is aging – the proportion of the elderly over 65 is expected to increase from 17.4% to almost 30% by 2060. The number of people over the age of 80 will triple over the same period. Active and healthy aging is vital to improving the quality of life of older people and ensuring that individuals continue to contribute to society. In this context, “healthy aging” refers to physical, mental and social well-being and “active aging” is the continuation of participation in political, cultural, economic, social, spiritual and sports activities.
The European Commission, in order to encourage active and healthy aging and help increase the expectation of a healthy life, has launched the European Innovation Partnership for Active and Healthy Aging, which aims to add an average of two years of healthy living to in 2020 in Europe.
Determinants of active and healthy aging
Assessing the contribution of diet and nutrition to active and healthy aging and its importance in the aging process, several determinants are involved, which are economic, social and behavioral factors.
Economic factors include income, social protection and employment, with low-income people at greater risk for disease as well as disability. This is because nutritious food, health care and housing are less accessible and accessible to people in financial difficulty. The health system and social services play an important role in healthy aging and should emphasize the promotion of health and the prevention of diseases, e.g. through vaccination programs or regular screening for malnutrition and payment. Aging is also affected by the natural and social environment. Cities, communities and neighborhoods could adapt their structures and services based on the different needs and abilities of older people. Social support and interaction can also play an important role in the health of the elderly. Adopting positive lifestyle behaviors, such as a balanced diet, exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as well as the proper use of medication, is also vital.
Malnutrition and dysfunctionstrong
, malnutrition is also a major problem in the elderly. In the European Union, more than 20 million older people are at risk of malnutrition, which costs European health and social care systems around € 120 billion a year.
Functional changes that occur with aging, including physical and physiological changes (mainly neurological problems), can significantly affect food intake and the degree of malnutrition in the elderly. Restrictions on mobility due to disorders such as sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and strength), arthritis and osteoporosis are likely to affect access to food and, consequently, food consumption. Sensory changes, especially in taste and smell, can reduce motivation and interest in food, while oral health problems such as tooth loss and reduced saliva production can lead to avoiding foods that are difficult to chew, e.g. χ. fruit and vegetables. Aging is also associated with loss of appetite, which is caused by changes in the release of certain gut hormones that regulate appetite. Cognitive impairments can affect food intake in the elderly, such as people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease who often forget to eat or drink.
The role of diet strong,
Regarding dietary supplements and their role in the treatment of malnutrition, there is insufficient evidence to prove their action in promoting the health of the elderly. Another way suggested is to maximize the intake of essential vitamins, minerals and bioactive substances from food. In particular, the Mediterranean diet is recommended to promote healthy aging, precisely because it is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. There is also evidence that the Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of cognitive decline.
