Researchers sought into nutrition and older people living alone

Thursday 8 October 2009

The Agency is wishing to commission research into nutritional issues affecting older people living alone in Northern Ireland.

The elderly remain the fastest growing segment of the population in Northern Ireland, according to the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency. While research shows that eating well plays an important role in the health of older people, studies have highlighted that nutrition is sometimes neglected because of a lack of cooking skills and knowledge, particularly after the death of a spouse.

A mixed qualitative and quantitative approach is required to explore the views and experiences of older persons, family members, social services and voluntary sector staff, in order for the Agency to better understand the factors that help or hinder an older person’s ability to eat well. Also required is expertise from disciplines, for example, social anthropology, sociology and social research methodology to complement existing work in nutrition.