Programa educativo sobre alimentación saludable dirigido a los adultos mayores, comunidad de Totoras, provincia de Chimborazo. Período abril -septiembre 2022

Abstract

This research was conducted to implement an educational program on healthy eating aimed at older adults in the Totoras community, Chimborazo Province. The study had a quasi- experimental methodological design with a cross-sectional descriptive approach. This research involved thirty older adults, nine men and twenty-one women, who completed a 15- question structured questionnaire. In addition, the survey contained items related to sociodemographic aspects, common diseases in older adults, and dietary practices. According to the results, it was possible to develop an education program for older adults in the community and to identify their age range, the dominant gender, eating habits, and aliments related to poor diet and alcohol consumption among others. Once the initial and final values were considered on healthy eating, there was an increase from 35% to 70% of older adults with a healthy diet in the community, which shows significant progress of the beneficiaries towards the objective. The participants’ healthy eating improved but, noticeable changes will be observed in the long term. Therefore, it is necessary to continue with the development of the activities proposed in the program.