Socioeconomic and informational determinants interact with nutrition knowledge in older adults

Background

Nutrition knowledge is recognised as an important determinant of dietary behaviour in older adults. However, evidence is limited on how sociodemographic factors and information sources jointly influence nutrition knowledge and dietary practices among older adults. This study addresses a research gap by evaluating how information channels independently influence nutrition literacy and dietary adherence. The specific objective was to investigate the relationship between the sociodemographic/informational predictors and nutrition knowledge/behaviour among community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis (N = 251) was conducted in municipal community centres in Ankara, Türkiye (October 2024–March 2025). There were five centres in total, and all were included. Data on sociodemographics, health status, nutrition knowledge and behaviour were acquired via face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent determinants of knowledge levels and dietary practices.

Results

Median nutrition knowledge score was 9 out of 11 (IQR: 8–10). Higher scores were significantly associated with younger age (<80 years, p < 0.001), higher educational status (p = 0.012), and higher income (p = 0.049). Consultation with healthcare professionals (physicians/dietitians) was the most significant predictor of higher knowledge (p = 0.006). Professional guidance was sought more frequently by women (OR:3.01) and those with prior nutrition education (OR:6.03). Media exposure (OR:3.51) and living with others (OR:4.20) emerged as the independent drivers for following media-promoted diets.

Conclusions

Nutrition knowledge strongly relates with socioeconomic position and information credibility. To support global healthy aging goals, intervention strategies must prioritize evidence-based dissemination via professional channels to mitigate the influence of unregulated media in aging populations.

Key messages

• Socioeconomic factors and information sources significantly shape nutrition knowledge and dietary behaviours among community-dwelling older adults.

• Access to credible nutrition information and professional guidance is key to improving dietary practices and supporting healthy ageing in middle-income settings.