LIFESTYLE NEEDS ASSESSMENT OF FREE LIVING ELDERLY IN TEHRAN: KEY INFORMANTS’ EXPERIENCE

Background and Aim: The most important factors affecting elder’s health is their lifestyle and quality of life. This study aimed to determine factors associated with nutrition and lifestyle of free living elderly based on Key informants’ experience.Methods: This cross-sectional, qualitative study was undertaken using semi-structured interviews with policy makers, implementers, and stakeholders involved in elder’s health in governmental and non-governmental organizations. Participants were selected via snow-ball sampling. Recorded texts were noted word by word, then highlighted and individually coded by two interviewers. Results: Thirteen interviews with key informants were held. Content analysis of the interviews showed that in the opinion of the most of the participants, elders have no problem with access to different food groups, except for meats. They expressed concern regarding inappropriate urban structure resulted in low physical activity. Mental health was identified as the most important problem in the elderly lifestyle. They believed that physical activity and nutritional status of elderly can be affected by depression and loneliness. Lack of participation in decision making at home and community, low economic status, and disability are the main factors responsible for their depression and anxiety. Almost all stated that elderly nutritional status is dependent on their economic and emotional status. Area of residence in Tehran was also mentioned by some of the informants as an indicator of nutritional status of elders. Conclusion: Focusing on emotional and mental health of the free living elderly in Tehran may be the key factors to promote good nutrition and active life style.

کلیدواژه ها:

free living elderly ، lifestyle ، nutrition ، key informants