Danish Dietary Recommandations for the Elderly

The standard retirement age in Denmark is 67 years. Sixteen percent of its total population is aged 65 and above. Danes enjoy a high average life expectancy: 72 years for men and just under 78 years for women. The elderly can be divided into two groups: 1) health_v elderly people resident at home and 2) sick elderly people resident at home and in institutions. The majority of the elderly enjoy generally good health. The diet-related diseases are the same as those affecting the rest of the population, and they are caused by an excessively high energy content of a diet which is poorly balanced in terms of macro-nutrients. While Danes receive adequate supplies of most vitamins and minerals, their fat intake is too high. Danish nutritional recommendations for healthy pensioners include a daily vitamin D intake of 10 microgrammes. Sick pensioners or small-eaters should follow the dietary recommendations for Danish hospitals. In accordance with the Danish Government's prevention program, the National Danish Food Agency is required to: provide increased opportunities for choosing a healthy diet; provide the possibility for flexible mealtimes; and provide the possibility for communal dining. From 1991, the National Food Agency has been allocated responsibility for the provision of public information concerning the prevention of diet-related diseases. Previously, it was the responsibility of the National Consumer Agency, which formulated general dietary advice recommendations.