Several aspects that restrict the attainment of an adequate nutritional status of the US elderly population (chronic diseases, poverty) in satisfying established RDA's, and programs (the Food Stamp Program (FSP); the Nutrition Program for the Elderly (NPE)) that have been aimed at enhancing such attainment, are briefly reviewed and discussed. Unusual nutrient needs for special conditions (e.g., metabolic disorders, continued use of pharmaceuticals) are not covered by the RDA's, and the margins of safety built into the RDA's do not cover special requirements caused by disease states. Statistics show that about 80% of the elderly have 1 or more chronic diseases. Furthermore, poverty may be one of the most important determinants of inadequate elderly nutrition. Households headed by the elderly participate proportionately less in the FSP than other households. In recent years, the FSP and the national NPE have been successful in reaching an increased number of the elderly, but in view of budgetary constraints, it is difficult to anticipate what changes can be made in US federal efforts to enhance the nutritional status of the elderly. (wz)
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