The objective of this work was to assess the nutrition status of elderly and to determine the nutritional value of their daily diet. The study was carried out with 76 residents of the Social Help Center “Kombatant” in Olsztyn, mean age 84 years. When assessing the nutrition status, the following anthropometric values were determined: body weight and height, body mass index (BMI), body fat mass and fat-free mass. Dietary practice of each subject was evaluated by 24 h recall method. Obesity was frequently observed in the elderly examined, affecting 15 to 35% subjects, as based on BMI and 35 to 85% subjects, as based on body fat mass. Obesity was more common in women that men. Except the intake of phosphorus by men, the intake of nutrients was considerably smaller than recommended dietary allowances (40 to 80% of the recommended level), creating a risk for dietary deficiencies, particularly regarding vitamins A, B₂, B₆ and C and minerals: calcium, magnesium and iron. The average intake of carbohydrates was particularly low, close to recommended minimum amount, i.e. about 160 g/day for women and about 190 g/day for men. Low intakes of fat (50 to 57 g/day) and cholesterol (180 to 200 mg/day) were considered advantageous. The failures observed in the nutrition patterns of elderly can stimulate the aging processes and favour osteoporosis in women.