To identify dietary availability and its time trends in elderly Portuguese households.

A set of four cross-sectional studies based on the Household Budget Surveys was used. The dietary data were described using the daily per capita availability of food and beverages, energy and selected nutrients (macronutrients, different lipid fractions and simple sugars). Differences between elderly household types and time trends were studied.

Portuguese Household Budget Survey data from 1989/1990, 1994/1995, 2000/2001 and 2005/2006.

Households with members aged ≥65 years were selected and categorized as solitary elderly female, solitary elderly male or couple (composed of one elderly female and one elderly male).

While cereals, fats/oils, potatoes and sugar/sugar products decreased, an increase occurred in milk/milk products, fruits, bottled water, fruit/vegetable juices and soft drinks (P<0·05). The highest values for foods and beverages were mostly found in couples, while the lowest ones were from solitary males. Exceptions were observed for cereals, eggs, milk/milk products, vegetables, fruits and non-alcoholic beverages, higher in solitary females; and for sugar/sugar products and alcoholic beverages, higher in solitary males. Over time, total energy and carbohydrates decreased while proteins and saturated fatty acids increased (P<0·001). Lipids increased in solitary males and couples (P<0·05). Simple sugars increased in solitary males but decreased in solitary females and couples (P<0·05).

The increases in fruits and vegetables in solitary females accord with a healthier food pattern, but overall imbalances in the macronutrient profile for all elderly households may imply a decreasing diet quality.