Food use and perceived food meanings of the elderly.

Food use frequency and food perception analyses were used to assess food use patterns of non-institutionalized, subjectively healthy seniors, aged 65 to 77 years and living alone. The majority of the sample maintained variety and nutritional balance in food selection; the women showed greater use several items, particularly fruits and vegetables. Tea, whole wheat bread, eggs, coffee, potatoes, margarine, carrots, and orange juice ranked highest in the core food list. Perceived taste and health beliefs were strong motives in food selection.