Mineral content of menus offered by social welfare home

Background: The aging of the population in Poland and globally has increased interest in nutrition for the elderly. Their diets are inappropriate, but modifications should be introduced gradually. This is important in hospital settings, sanatoriums or social care homes, where patients have few choices. Aim of the study: The study aimed to assess the content of the selected mineral salts in ten day menus offered by the Social Welfare Home based on season of the year. Material and methods: The study included 40 menus offered in four seasons of the year for the residents of the Social Welfare Home in Lower Silesia. The mineral content of the foods on the menus were assessed. We considered the physical activity of the elderly (1.4—Physical Activity Level) using norms developed by the Food and Nutrition Institute, and calculated the average norms of the analysed nutrients for people over 60 years of age. Results: The diets were low in minerals such as calcium and potassium, and contained an excessive amount of phosphorus, sodium, iron and zinc in all seasons. Although magnesium levels in the spring and summer were appropriate, deficits appeared in autumn and winter diets. Conclusions: The evaluated menus showed inadequate supplies of the assessed mineral salts. More analysis and adjustments to planned meals is recommended.