181 The experiences and perceptions of community volunteers in providing nutrition care supporting older adults: a qualitative evidence synthesis

Abstract

Abstract Background Nutrition care is crucial for the well-being of older adults but can be complex. It involves many healthcare professionals, family, carers and community supports. In numerous situations, volunteers are involved in community and social support initiatives that could have an impact on nutrition care and malnutrition. This study aimed to synthesise and explore the perceptions and experiences among community voluntary service providers of their role in supporting nutrition care among community-dwelling older adults. Methods A systematic search of seven databases (Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO) was conducted with the following 4 key terms, ‘Community voluntary providers’, ‘Nutrition care’, ‘Older adults’ and ‘qualitative’ using Boolean operators. There was no restriction on publication date or language for this search, each database was searched from its origin to the present. Meta-ethnography was used to synthesise data in a descriptive-integrative approach. NVIVO was used to create codes for the selected articles. Results The systematic database search resulted in the identification of 275 articles and one more article through reference list filtering. For this qualitative evidence synthesis, two publications were included after applying an exclusion process. Four themes were identified from the first and second-order data: (1) providing social interaction, (2) supporting independent living, (3) benefits for all, and (4) early warnings of health changes. These themes describe the positive experiences for the volunteer and the client, and the impact of volunteering. Conclusion The interactions between older adults and volunteers, as well as the connections they form through frequent contact, enable volunteers to identify issues or sudden health changes in individuals. Volunteer meal delivery schemes allow older adults to continue living independently in their own homes. However, there is a need to assess the impact of these interventions on older adults health outcomes and experience.