Food insecurity among older Australians: prevalence, correlates and well-being

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine (i) the prevalence of food insecurity among older persons, (ii) the characteristics of the food insecure and (iii) the association between food insecurity and well-being. Methods: The 2001 National Health Survey is used to measure the prevalence of food insecurity. Multivariate analysis is conducted using rare events logistic regression. Results: Almost 3% of Australians aged 55 years and over, and 7% of those aged under 55 are estimated to be food insecure. Lone males and females are more likely to experience food insecurity when compared to couples. Low-income earners and those with multiple long-term conditions are at a heightened risk of food insecurity. The probability of food insecurity decreases with age. Persons who are food insecure perform poorly against self-reported measures of well-being. Conclusions: Although the prevalence of food insecurity is low, a definite social gradient exists in those at risk.