Knowing the nutritional requirements for elderly persons of concern to many people who reach this stage of life or the family looking for information for one of its members. The energy requirements in old age decrease significantly, the rate of 10% per decade after age 60. This is due to loss of muscle mass and decreased physical activity. • Protein: Protein requirements are 10-20% of total calories in the elderly. 50% must be supplied in the form of animal protein (meat, fish or eggs), however, often has little appetite for these foods and therefore should be evaluated using protein shakes. • Fat: Fat requirements vary between 30-35% of the total diet. He advises a moderate intake of cholesterol and especially

the consumption of olive oil, flaxseed. It should reduce animal fat by the high content of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol. • Carbohydrates: Carbohydrate requirements are between 50-55% of total calories. With age increases the risk of diabetes mellitus and high blood glucose level is associated with greater functional impairment as a limitation in activities of daily living. In the elderly diabetic is advised to reduce this contribution to prefer the consumption of complex carbohydrates, mainly represented by cereals, bread, pasta, potatoes or vegetables. In turn we need a fiber intake of 20-30 grams per day. • Vitamins and Minerals: In the elderly we see a lack of vitamins and minerals due to reduced consumption of certain foods, decreased metabolic processes, drug consumption and the association of disease, increasing dramatically their needs. With age, calcium absorption decreases in relation to lower gastric acid secretion and lower levels of vitamin D by a decreased level of skin. Lack of exercise and menopause favors bone loss. Also iron deficiency is a common problem, particularly associated with prolonged use of antacids and anti-inflammatory. It is generally recommended for administration in sufficient doses of both vitamins and minerals to meet the physiological needs of the organism. It is advisable to take a balanced diet, supervised by doctors and nutritionists, to ensure proper nutrition and quality of life for the elderly patient.