Meals Enhancing Nutrition After Discharge: Findings from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Top Things to Know

The study demonstrated the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial with home-delivered meals for older adults.

Participants receiving home-delivered meals had a significantly higher caloric intake compared to the control group.

High levels of satisfaction were reported among participants regarding the meal quality and delivery process.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study evaluated the feasibility and impact of a post-discharge home-delivered meal program for older adults at nutritional risk. Participants were randomized to receive either 10 days of home-delivered meals and nutrition education or usual care with nutrition education. The primary outcomes were hospital readmissions and total daily caloric intake. The study found no significant difference in hospital readmissions between the groups, but the intervention group had a higher caloric intake. Participants were highly satisfied with the meal program.