Dissertation
Use of formative research methods to explore and understand food handling practices, attitudes and behaviors among older adults in the United States
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
Dec 2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001362
Abstract
Every year it is estimated that just three foodborne pathogens, Salmonella, Campylobacter and Listeria sicken 221,290 U.S. adults, 65 years of age and older. Moreover, when compared to other age groups, older adults are more likely to be hospitalized and subsequently die because of their illness. Unfortunately, many older adults do not follow food safety guidelines that would reduce their risk of infection. Targeted food safety education is needed in order to reduce food safety risks among older adults; however, there has been little formative research conducted that could be used to guide the development of targeted food safety education for older consumers. The goal of the research proposed here was to use a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods to inform recommendations for food safety messaging directed at older adults. First, focus groups were conducted with older adults in order to determine their current food handling and consumption practices as well as their attitudes and beliefs about food safety. The Health Belief Model (HBM) theory of behavior change supported development of the focus group questioning route as well as thematic analysis of the focus group responses. Next a survey, informed by the focus group responses and also guided by the HBM, was developed and validated. Exploratory factor analysis identified four HBM factors and three food handling factors. Finally, the validated survey was administered to a nationwide sample of 1552 older adults in order to confirm or modify the focus group results. Based upon the survey responses, recommendations were made for several food safety messages that could serve as the basis for future food safety educational interventions targeting older adults.
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Details
- Title
- Use of formative research methods to explore and understand food handling practices, attitudes and behaviors among older adults in the United States
- Creators
- Melissa Kavanaugh
- Contributors
- Jennifer J. Quinlan (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- ix, 177 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Nutrition Sciences; College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991019135605604721