Health perception and food choice factors in predicting healthy consumption among elderly

Abstract

The main objective of the paper is to explore the impact of health perception and food choice factors on healthy food consumption among elderly and to indicate how different food choice motives influence the eating behaviour of elderly population. In our research we explore six food choice factors and their manifestation in attitudes towards healthy consumption. The purpose of the exploration of health perception is to identify seniors beliefs about food and health-related aspects. Empirical research was conducted on a random sample of 400 elderly participants aged above 65 years and living in their own flats. Non-probability sampling in the form of convenience sampling was employed. The relationship between health beliefs and attitudes towards healthy eating behaviour was confirmed with employing multiple regression analysis. We conclude that both health beliefs and food choice factors investigated in the research are important determinants of seniors' healthy consumption, however with different effect on healthy eating behaviour.