* Service de Geriatrie, Centre hospitalier Valence, 26953 Valence Cedex 9, France. ** LBSO, Domaine de la Merci, 38700 La Tronche, France. *** Department of Clinical Gerontology, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, BP 56, 63118 France

Abstract: Objectives: to provide information and data on food and fluid intake of free-living elderly aged of 81-86 years old residing in the south of France. Methods: using standardised methods data were collected from a random sample born between 1913 and 1918. The French study protocol again included data collection on dietary intake using a standardised modified dietary history consisting of a food frequency list and a 3-day estimated dietary record. Results: Total dietary intake was generally low as compared to the recommended daily intake for elderly subjects. Conclusion: This descriptive part of the SENECA study gives the opportunity to have information on this growing segment of the population. These results should help to adapt the dietary guidelines for this category of the population.