Food insecurity and health-related quality of life among a nationally representative sample of older adults: cross-sectional analysis

Background: Food insecurity is a significant health issue among older adults and contributes to poorer quality of life and mental health. However, limited evidence is available among older adults. Thus, the study evaluated the associations between food security and multiple outcomes related to health-related quality of life. We examined whether participants’ sex and participation in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/or receiving the Food Stamp program might modify these associations. Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of the 2007–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). A sample of 3,375 adults aged ≥ 60 years with household incomes ≤ 300% of the federal poverty level (FPBL). Food security was assessed using the 18-item US Household Food Security Survey Module and categorized as food security, marginal food security, and food insecurity. Outcomes were the CDC Health-Related Quality of Life measures (HRQOL-4). Results: Approximately 8% experienced marginal food security and 12% experienced food insecurity. Over the past month, food insecurity was significantly associated with ≥ 16 days of poor physical health (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.23, 2.85, P-trend = 0.005), ≥ 16 days of poor mental health (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.50, 3.28, P-trend < 0.0001), and ≥ 16 days of feeling anxious (OR 3.33, 95% CI 2.30, 4.81, P-trend < 0.0001) after multivariate adjustment. The association between food insecurity and poor physical health was stronger in females (P-interaction = 0.02). There was no evidence for effect modification in any of these associations among those receiving benefits from the federal SNAP/Food Stamp program. Conclusions: Food insecurity was positively associated with multiple adverse health outcomes. Public health programs and policies targeted for older adults are needed to mitigate the extent of food insecurity to promote overall health and well-being.