Published Article

ABSTRACT

This study examined the impact of belief on the eating habits of the elderly, with particular emphasis on how beliefs influence food consumption, nutrient intake, and the health status of older adults in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria in carrying out this study, an ex post facto research design was adopted. The study was conducted in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The target population comprised all elderly persons in Uyo Local Government Area. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 80 elderly persons from the study area, giving a total sample size of 80 respondents. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire entitled "Impact of Belief on Eating Habits of the Elderly Questionnaire (IBEHEQ)." The face and content validity of the instrument were established by an expert in Test, Measurement, and Evaluation to ensure its relevance, clarity, and suitability for the study. The instrument yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.79, which was considered sufficiently high to justify its use. The data obtained from the respondents were analyzed using percentage analysis, which was employed to answer the research questions. The result of the findings revealed that defined, structured dietary choices recorded the highest percentage (37.50%), while disruption of homeostatic eating habits, culminating in compromised metabolic outcomes recorded the least percentage (27.50%) under the impact of belief on eating habits. Also, maintenance of muscle mass, strength, and physical functioning recorded the highest percentage (37.50%), whereas immune system and resistance to disease recorded the least percentage (28.75%) regarding the impact of nutrients on the health status of the elderly. Furthermore, beliefs about healthy foods recorded the highest percentage (22.50%), while acceptance of nutritional advice recorded the least percentage (10.00%) as cultural factors influencing the eating habits of the elderly. The study concluded that belief and culture significantly influence the eating habits of the elderly and consequently affect their nutritional status and overall health. One of the recommendations made was that healthcare professionals and nutritionists should provide culturally sensitive nutrition education to older adults while promoting balanced dietary practices that support healthy ageing.