Online Program Delivering Tailored Messages Appears Feasible to Motivate Healthier Nutrition and Dental Behaviors in Low-Income Caregivers of Young Children

Abstract

ObjectivesTest feasibility and usefulness of an online tailored, nutrition and dental health message program for low-income caregivers of young children. MethodsCaregivers were recruited from early educational and family resource centers in low-income communities. Smartphone optimized and aligned with the Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Framework, the online program queried about nutrition and oral health misconceptions, intake and liking of foods/beverages, and frequency and liking for oral health behaviors. Messages, developed from our quantitative and qualitative research, were tailored to the child’s preferences and preventative oral health behaviors to inform and motivate healthier behaviors. Feasibility was assessed by caregiver-reported acceptability and relevance of the survey and messages as well as willingness to improve or maintain nutrition and dental health behaviors. ResultsMost caregivers (83%, n = 140) completed the program (avg = 16.5 min) and were female (88%) with diverse race/ethnicity (39% non-Hispanic White). Nearly all agreed they could answer questions and fix mistakes quickly (≥92%) and the survey got them thinking about their child’s nutrition and dental health (91%). Some caregivers had misconceptions that young children need special, non-family foods (34%) and dental care as less important for children with baby-teeth (17%). Some children failed to meet recommended frequency of teeth brushing (29%), flossing (44%), and dental visits (9%). More children did not meet recommended intakes of vegetables (55%), dairy products (64%), and whole grains (53%). Among all children, the least liked were protein foods, high-fiber foods, and vegetables. Most caregivers agreed the messages were helpful (89%) and they learned new information (81%). Nearly all were willing to try or continue ≥1 health-promoting behavior for their child. ConclusionsThese preliminary findings support that the tailored messaging program addresses needed nutrition and dental health promotion, with a feasible online survey and relevant tailored messages that encourage target behaviors caregivers are willing to improve. The tailored message program can inform one-on-one motivational sessions for goal setting toward healthier nutrition and dental health behaviors. Funding SourcesAcademy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation funded.