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Older Adults’ Experiences of Institutional Eating and Dining: A Qualitative Study on Mealtimes in Adult Day Centers
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Older Adults’ Experiences of Institutional Eating and Dining: A Qualitative Study on Mealtimes in Adult Day Centers

Rinat Avraham, Natan Lev, Jonathan Michael Deutsch, Nadav Davidovitch and Stav Shapira
Nutrients, v 17(3), 420
23 Jan 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030420
PMID: 39940278
Featured in Collection :   Research Supported by Drexel Libraries' OA Programs
url
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030420View
Published, Version of Record (VoR)Open Access Discount via Drexel Libraries Read and Publish Program 2025CC BY V4.0,  Open

Abstract

adult day centers healthy aging healthy placemaking mealtime experience older adults qualitative research Aging
Background/Objectives: As the global population ages, it is becoming increasingly important to create sustainable, health-promoting environments that support healthy aging. This study explores seniors’ mealtime experiences in adult day centers (ADCs) in southern Israel, focusing on identifying health and well-being needs related to eating and dining behaviors through the lens of the healthy placemaking approach. Methods: Thematic analysis was used to analyze data from focus groups and interviews with ADC attendees and leaders across a multicultural sample of ADCs in southern Israel between April and November 2022. Results: Three main themes emerged from the study: (1) individual-level needs, which are met through meals or during mealtimes and include positive experiences, a sense of empowerment, and the cultivation of warmth and domesticity; (2) social needs, which are addressed through interactions during mealtimes and food-related behaviors, including building social connections, fostering community, and encouraging social engagement; and (3) sustainability, health, and environmental aspects, including promoting a healthy and disease-appropriate diet, alongside addressing ecological and food security concerns. Conclusions: We demonstrate the pivotal role of ADC meals in facilitating social engagement and fostering a sense of community among attendees. Additionally, we highlight the importance of centering attendees’ concerns and needs in the dining experience and promoting their active participation in decision-making processes. Transforming ADC meals through the healthy placemaking approach can promote healthy eating, enhance social interactions, and support sustainable environments.

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This publication has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#3 Good Health and Well-Being

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
International collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Nutrition & Dietetics
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