Barriers, facilitators, and needs for supporting healthy diets in community-dwelling older adults and their informal caregivers: A qualitative study
Doris Eglseer, Silvia Bauer, Elfriede Farzer, Marianne Reitbauer, Lena Maria Lampersberger
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: A balanced diet is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and contributes significantly to healthy aging. In advanced age, numerous challenges can hinder nutritional intake, and informal caregivers also often experience substantial burdens that may negatively affect their eating habits. This study aimed to explore the barriers, facilitators and support needs for maintaining a healthy diet among community-dwelling older adults in need of care and their informal caregivers. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative study with 24 participants was conducted using non-probability sampling. Individual interviews were conducted with 17 informal caregivers and 7 older persons in need of care using a semi-structured interview guide. Data analysis was performed using qualitative content analysis. The COREQ checklist was used for reporting. RESULTS: Several subthemes emerged within the three main categories (1) barriers, (2) facilitators, and (3) needs. Barriers included lack of knowledge, poor communication between care-recipients and caregivers, inappropriate meals, health issues associated with eating and drinking, negative attitudes, and, specifically in informal caregivers, limited resources and environmental constraints. Facilitators included social support, access to healthy food, positive environmental factors, sufficient resources, meal planning, high nutritional knowledge, and positive attitudes. Both older adults and informal caregivers expressed a need for further nutritional support and information. CONCLUSION: The lack of nutritional knowledge, coupled with a strong desire for more information, highlights the urgent need for targeted, high-quality nutrition education and training with respect to these groups. Such education should integrate behaviour change strategies to help individuals adopt and maintain healthier eating habits.