Older Adults’ Engagement for Change Reported During Community Health Worker Calls in an Enhanced Home-Delivered Meal Program

Authors: Isabelli Costa da Silva, Kim Gans, Maria Noonan, Gloria Oladeji, Kali Thomas, Brie Tyler, Meghan Grady, Shana Defelice, Maya Hussein, Amelia Lusi, Kiara Ramos-Morales, Caitlin Caspi

This study explored how Community Health Workers (CHWs) supported older adults who were unable to leave their homes through a meal delivery programme in Rhode Island, USA. In addition to receiving meals, 57 participants received coaching calls and healthy grocery bags to help them improve their health. More than half reported concerns about food and nutrition, and many set goals related to healthy eating and managing health conditions. Participants considered their goals important and remained willing to work towards them. The findings suggest that CHWs can help older adults address nutrition and health challenges and make positive changes in their daily lives.