Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
Home food environment of older adults transitioning from hospital to home
Ucheoma O Anyanwu1, Joseph R Sharkey, Robert T Jackson
1Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA. ucheoma@unitedwaypassaic.org
Abstract:
Only anecdotal information is known about foods available in the home of hospital-discharged older adults. This study describes the home food environment of this population and examines associations between health/nutrition risk factors and ability to shop and prepare meals. Data were collected from 512 hospital-discharged older adults residing in 6 U.S. states; food available within the home was assessed. Most households had a variety of food present; however, 20% of households lacked fresh fruit, 15% lacked fresh vegetables, and 35% had no fresh meat. About 35% of participants reported an inability to both prepare meals and shop for food. Among those unable to do both activities, the prevalence of depressive symptoms, food-related anxiety, and poor self-rated health was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than those able to do both activities. Homebound older adults may face additional challenges to recuperation from illness based on inability to prepare meals, regardless of availability of food following hospital discharge.
Related Concept Videos
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
Development of Human Microbiota
Restorative Care
Discharge Summary Forms
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
Homeostatic Imbalance
However, sometimes these feedback loops fail,...
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients