Current Practices and Tailoring Strategies of Foodservice Programs for Vulnerable Older Adults in Seoul

摘要

The study assessed the operations of foodservice programs for vulnerable older adults residing in Seoul to suggest strategies for tailoring foodservice for older adults. A total of 130 dietitians and social workers in charge of the foodservice in welfare centers located in Seoul participated in the survey, and 125 responses were used for analysis excluding responses with significant missing data. In terms of the congregate meal service, the participants assessed the food safety management the highestand assessed the operation resources, such as labor, budgets, and foodservice facilities the lowest. Regarding the meal and side-dish delivery service, they rated checking the safety of the recipients the highest but rated the menu choice availability and therapeutic diet provision the lowest due to limited resources. The foodservice managers perceived the barriers toward providing nutrition education highly. The congregate meal service was assessed to be suitable for older adults with financial difficulties, older adults living alone, older adults socially isolated, and older adults aged 80 years or older. In addition, the meal and side-dish delivery service was assessed to be suitable for those with disabilities, those with financial difficulties, those living alone, and those with severe illnesses. Congregate and meal and side-dish delivery services need to be differentiated by segmenting and targeting vulnerable older adults by their various needs and circumstances. The effectiveness of the foodand nutrition service for vulnerable older adults in the community can be maximized by integrating the healthcare-nutrition service and food provision service and customizing them to the needs of older adults.