Making home-delivered meal programs relevant for today’s aging adult

Abstract

The growing aging population increases the need for community food programs like home-delivered meals. This study explored factors influencing aging adults’ interest in home-delivered meal programs, like Meals on Wheels. Four focus groups were held with 31 primarily retired White females aged 65–84 years in a Midwest state. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Participants also completed a 21-item sociodemographic questionnaire. Many were aware of Meals on Wheels but lacked awareness of other home-delivered meal programs. Meals on Wheels was associated with loss of independence, poor food quality, and companionship. Home-delivered meal programs participation motivators included affordable cost, choices/variety, nutritionist/dietitian involvement, and clientele testimonies. Home-delivered meal programs participation barriers were distrust of marketing claims, food safety concerns, and limited meal storage space. Preferred home-delivered meal programs attributes included convenience and quality menu options. Preferred home-delivered meal programs promotional strategies included brochures, in-person presentations, and product sampling. By addressing these motivators and preferred marketing strategies, home-delivered meal programs may be better able to appeal to today’s aging adult.