Tailoring registered dietitian and occupational therapy services for home-delivered meal recipients: feasibility study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Top Things to Know

The study aims to assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining participants for a larger trial.

Tailored dietitian and occupational therapy services may improve dietary management and reduce fall risks among older adults.

Evaluating the resources needed for implementing these services is crucial for planning the larger trial.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study explored the feasibility of integrating registered dietitian and occupational therapy services with home-delivered meal programs for older adults. It aims to determine the feasibility of recruiting and retaining participants, improving data collection procedures, assessing necessary resources, and ensuring the proper implementation of services. The study involves 60 participants divided into four groups: meals only, meals plus dietitian services, meals plus occupational therapy services, and meals plus both services. Initial findings suggest that tailored clinical services may enhance the health outcomes of home-delivered meal recipients, particularly in managing diet-related diseases and reducing fall risks. The study will inform a larger, definitive trial to evaluate the efficacy of these service models.