The objective of this research is to assess whether regular consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with differences in healthcare use among older individuals across Europe. By exploring this relationship, the study seeks to contribute evidence relevant to policy strategies aimed at improving health outcomes and managing healthcare resources effectively in an ageing European population. This study draws on data from the 2019–2020 eighth wave of the Survey of Health, Retirement and Ageing in Europe (SHARE). A cross-sectional analytical approach is employed to evaluate the relationship between daily fruit and vegetable intake and multiple indicators of healthcare utilization, including the probability of hospitalization, duration of inpatient stays, frequency of general practitioner visits, and use of specialist medical services.
The analysis indicates that daily consumption of fruits and vegetables does not significantly affect the likelihood of being hospitalized compared with less frequent intake. Nevertheless, among those who experienced hospitalization, individuals reporting daily intake had fewer hospital admissions and shorter lengths of stay. In addition, regular fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with a higher probability of visiting both general practitioners and medical specialists. This pattern may reflect greater health awareness and more active engagement in health management among individuals with healthier dietary practices. The findings imply that, although regular fruit and vegetable intake may not directly reduce the initial risk of hospitalization among older adults, it is associated with lower rates of repeated hospital admissions and reduced time spent in hospital once admitted. Furthermore, higher consumption of fruits and vegetables appears to be linked to increased use of preventive and routine healthcare services, including primary and specialist care. Overall, the results suggest that dietary habits may play an important role in shaping healthcare utilization patterns and associated costs in ageing populations.
