Dietary Diversity and Micronutrient Adequacy Among Elderly Persons in Maiduguri, Borno State

The nutritional needs of elderly populations are often overlooked in nutrition policy discourse in Nigeria, particularly in conflict-affected areas of the North East. This study assesses dietary diversity and micronutrient adequacy among older adults aged 60 years and above residing in selected communities in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State. The prolonged humanitarian crisis in the North East has displaced large populations and disrupted food systems, increasing vulnerability among elderly persons. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, with 200 elderly individuals recruited through community-based sampling. The Minimum Dietary Diversity Score for Women was adapted for use in this population, and a quantitative 24-hour dietary recall was used to estimate nutrient intakes. Anthropometric indices including body mass index and calf circumference were measured. Structured interviews gathered data on health status, physical activity, and food access. Findings are anticipated to reveal poor dietary diversity, low intakes of calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12, and a high prevalence of undernutrition. The role of displacement, limited income, and poor dentition in shaping dietary behaviour among the elderly is examined. The study recommends age-responsive nutrition interventions in humanitarian and post-conflict settings. Keywords: dietary diversity, elderly nutrition, micronutrients, Maiduguri, Borno State.