Nutrition Research and Practice

The Korean Nutrition Society (한국영양학회)
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Development of a frailty prevention program including nutrition and exercise interventions for older adults in senior daycare centers in South Korea using a mixed methods research design

  • Jiwon Sim (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University) ;
  • Jongguk Lim (Department of Physical Education, Hallym University) ;
  • Eunji Ko (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University) ;
  • Eunjin Jang (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University) ;
  • Minjeong Jeong (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University) ;
  • Sohyun Park (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University)
  • Received : 2024.01.11
  • Accepted : 2024.03.25
  • Published : 2024.06.01
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Abstract

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The growing aging population has led to an increased utilization of senior daycare centers. This study was conducted to design a program to enhance the health of older adults in senior daycare centers in Chuncheon City, South Korea. SUBJECTS/METHODS: The study explored the health conditions and dietary patterns of older adults in senior daycare centers. Participants included staff and older adults from senior daycare centers in Chuncheon City. A mixed methods research design was used to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative insights were obtained through in-depth interviews with 26 staff members and older adults, coupled with observations made at 10 senior daycare centers. The quantitative component comprised structured questionnaires and physical measurements of 204 older adults at these centers. RESULTS: Many of the older adults relied on the meals provided by the center due to their limited cooking abilities. Dental health issues and dysphagia were common. Interviews highlighted the budgetary constraints of the centers in providing wholesome meals and the need for government support to alleviate meal expenses and enhance quality. A structured survey of older adults showed that the average age was 83.3 yrs, with an average of 2 chronic conditions per participant. Frailty analysis of the participants revealed that 56.2% were prefrail and 32.0% were frail. Almost half of the participants (47.0%) used dentures. Based on these findings, a preventive intervention program was proposed, addressing the specific needs and challenges of older adults while promoting overall well-being and preventing frailty. CONCLUSION: Tailored health promotion strategies are crucial in senior daycare centers. Recommended interventions include staff nutrition education, improved dietary plans, and cost-effective strength training programs. These interventions aim to reduce frailty and enhance the quality of life of older adults in the community via interventions in daycare centers.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to express their gratitude to the study participants for their cooperation, as well as to Dr. Dongsoo Shin for her guidance and participation in the quantitative data collection and contribution to funding acquisition for the project.

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