Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the individual and health-related characteristics of eating habits m community dwelling elders in Korea. Method: A cross-sectional survey was done using a sample of 366 elders, over 65 years of age, from three metropolitan areas, three middle urban areas and one rural area. Based on a literature review, the Eating Behavior Scale (EBS) was developed, consisting of 11 yes/no responses (yes=1, no=0). EBS scores were calculated as the sum of responses. Demographic and health-related data were also obtained. Independent t-test and ANOVAs were used for data analysis. Results: Variables in education, spouse, religion, and living arrangement were found to significantly affect eating habits (p<.05) as were health perception, exercise, and smoking. (p<\'05) Elders with higher education, practicing religion, and still living with their spouse had better eating habits, and elders with good perception of health, who exercised regularly, and who did not smoke also had better eating habits. Conclusions: These findings provide an understanding of eating habits of community dwelling elders, and will aid in the development of specific strategies for health promotion for those elders who have no spouse, live alone, have a low perception of health, and do not exercise, but smoke.