Appetitive trait profiles in late life: links to eating disorder psychopathology and psychosocial well-being

Abstract

Abstract Objective Appetitive traits shape eating behaviors across the lifespan, yet their patterns and health correlates in later life remain poorly understood. This study used latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify distinct profiles of appetitive traits among older adults and to examine their sociodemographic and oral health correlates, as well as their associations with eating disorder symptoms and psychosocial outcomes. Method A sample of 579 Chinese older adults (aged 60–93 years) was included. LPA was conducted to derive appetitive trait profiles, followed by multinomial logistic regression and Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars (BCH) analyses to examine predictors and health outcomes. Results Four profiles were identified: Low Appetitive Traits (16.1%), Moderate Appetitive Traits with Emotional Under-Eating (29.0%), Moderate Appetitive Traits (44.9%), and High Conflicted Appetitive Traits (10.0%). Oral health emerged as a consistent correlate of profile membership, alongside age, marital status, residence, and education, whereas sex and number of natural teeth were not associated with memberships. Profiles differed significantly in psychological distress, disordered eating, ARFID symptoms, and health-related quality of life. The High Conflicted Appetitive Traits profile was characterized by the greatest eating-related psychopathology and poorest psychosocial outcomes, whereas the Low Appetitive Traits profile showed the most favorable health profile. Conclusions These findings demonstrate substantial heterogeneity in appetitive traits in later life and highlight their close links with oral health, sociodemographic factors, and psychological well-being. Identifying high-risk appetitive profiles may inform targeted interventions integrating nutritional guidance, oral health promotion, and psychosocial support to promote healthy aging.