Social isolation, loneliness and low dietary micronutrient intake amongst older people in England.

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are associated with increased risk of adverse health outcomes at older ages. This study evaluated whether isolation and loneliness are related to inadequate intake of micronutrients in the diet.

Methods: We tested associations between social isolation and loneliness and dietary micronutrient intake 2 years later in 3713 men and women (mean age 68.26, standard deviation 7.81 years) who completed two online 24-h dietary recalls. Associations of isolation and loneliness with intake of nine minerals and vitamins that fell below national recommendations were tested using logistic regressions, adjusting for age, gender, ethnicity, education, marital status, smoking and physical activity and total energy intake.

Results: The prevalence of low dietary intake varied markedly across micronutrients. Social isolation (1-point increase in a score ranging 0-5) was associated with increased odds (adjusted for covariates) of low intake of magnesium [odds ratio (OR) 1.153, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.037-1.282, P = .009], potassium (OR 1.201, 95% CI 1.087-1.327, P < .001), vitamin B6 (OR 1.263, 95% CI 1.110-1.438, P < .001), folate (OR 1.211, 95% CI 1.093-1.341, P < .001) and vitamin C (OR 1.238, 95% CI 1.098-1.394, P < .001). These associations remained unchanged when food insecurity and impaired activities of daily living were taken into account. By contrast, loneliness was not related to the inadequate intake of any micronutrient.

Conclusions: Low intake of micronutrients increases risk of age-related health problems. Attention to the dietary quality of older people with limited social contacts and little involvement in community activities might enhance health outcomes.