Ekpenyong, Mandu Stephen and Ogunleye, Adetoro and Bakre, Aishat T. (2025) Determinants of fish consumption among older adults in the UK. Frontiers in Nutrition, 12. p. 1716700. ISSN 2296-861X
Full text not available from this repository.Abstract
Background: Eating fish regularly can lower the risks of heart disease, brain disorders, and overall mortality, especially in older adults. Even with these benefits, older people tend to eat less fish than younger people, and the reasons behind these eating habits are not well understood. Aim: This study investigated the determinants of fish consumption among older adults in the UK. It focused on what they see as helpful or limiting factors and their beliefs about health. Methods: The study used a qualitative approach with two focus group discussions involving 12 participants aged 60 and older, recruited from a local religious organisation in Wolverhampton, UK. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews based on available literature and expert advice. The transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis to find key themes. Rigour was maintained through reflection, the use of different moderators, and repeated coding. Results: Participants explained that their fish consumption is influenced by cultural traditions, religious beliefs, family habits, and personal tastes. Helpful factors included taste, health beliefs, and convenience. Barriers included cost, difficulty in preparation, and availability. Many participants acknowledged the physical and mental health benefits of eating fish, but they also expressed concerns about quality, authenticity, and misconceptions regarding frozen fish. These results show how dietary choices are affected by a mix of personal, social, and environmental factors. Conclusion: Although older adults acknowledge the nutritional and health benefits of fish, practical barriers such as affordability, accessibility, and preparation challenges continue to limit intake. Addressing these barriers and promoting lifelong positive habits may support improved consumption and healthier ageing.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | ** Article version: VoR ** Embargo end date: 28-11-2025 ** From Frontiers via Jisc Publications Router ** History: collection 01-01-2025; received 01-10-2025; rev-recd 17-11-2025; accepted 18-11-2025; epub 28-11-2025. ** Licence for VoR version of this article starting on 28-11-2025: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ** Peer reviewed: TRUE ** Acknowledgements: We would like to acknowledge Prof Rolling Chan for the supervision and review of this study. The authors would like to thank the participants of this study for giving their time and views on this subject. |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | qualitative research, barriers and enablers, dietary behaviour, older adults, fish consumption |
| Subjects: | H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine |
| Divisions: | Institutes and Academies > Institute of Inner City Learning |
| Identification Number: | https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1716700 |
| SWORD Depositor: | JISC Publications Router |
| Depositing User: | JISC Publications Router |
| Date Deposited: | 15 Dec 2025 15:15 |
| Last Modified: | 15 Dec 2025 15:15 |
| URI: | https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/4050 |
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