Hygienic characteristics of the daily food set of elderly individuals residing in a social care institution in Bishkek

With age, physiological needs of the human body change, especially in terms of nutrition. The growing proportion of elderly people in Kyrgyzstan's population highlights the need to study the specifics of their nutrition. Considering age-related changes in the body and current demographic trends, we aimed to provide a hygienic characterization of the daily diet of elderly individuals residing in a social care institution in Bishkek. Materials and Methods. To assess the quality of nutrition among the elderly residing in the social institution, an analysis of their daily diet was conducted over the course of a year using hygienic, epidemiological, and statistical methods. A total of 120 menus (30 days in each season) were analyzed using the V.N. Kardashenko methodology. Results. An analysis of the elderly's diet revealed significant discrepancies between the actual consumption of nutrients and recommended norms. A significant excess of carbohydrate consumption was observed due to bakery products, cereals, and sugar, which can lead to the development of obesity and diabetes. At the same time, there was a deficiency of protein, vitamins, and minerals necessary to maintain the health of the elderly. Conclusions. The results obtained indicate the need to develop and implement comprehensive measures to improve the quality of nutrition for the elderly in social institutions. It is necessary to optimize the menu by increasing the proportion of vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and fish. It is also important to conduct regular monitoring of nutrition and carry out health education among the staff and residents of the institutions