노인들의 건강식품 섭취 실태 및 정보 탐색 행동 관련 요인에 관한 연구

Intake Patterns and Information-seeking Behaviors of the Elderly Regarding Health Foods

This study examined the intake patterns and information-seeking behaviors of elderly individuals with regard to health foods, according to sociodemograhic characteristics, awareness of health, and concerns and awareness about health foods. The data were collected from 421 elderly living in Seoul, Busan, Daegue, Daejon, and Gwangju, between January 17th and February 23rd, 2006. Frequencies and chi-square tests were conducted using SPSS Windows. The results are as follows: The respondents were highly concerned about their own health as well as health foods, and individuals primarily took nutritional supplements and glucosamine containing products. In addition, they had taken various health-improving foods. Most had intentionally consumed at least one health food, in order to maintain a condition of health. According to chi-square tests, women were more likely to consume health foods than men. The most important sources of information regarding health foods were family, relatives, and friends. Some respondents answered they had difficulties in obtaining and understanding health food-related information. Many respondents desired to get health food information regarding efficacy from TV, radio, and newspapers, as well as doctors, pharmacists, and dieticians.