Fresh Conversations, a SNAP-Ed Program for Older Adults: Feedback From Program Facilitators.

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Education
• Public Health Programs
• Community Outreach

Background:

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) aims to improve nutrition among low-income populations.
• Fresh Conversations (FC) is a SNAP-Ed intervention designed to promote healthy eating habits.
• Evaluating program delivery models is crucial for effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather feedback from Fresh Conversations (FC) facilitators on a new program delivery model.
• To identify facilitators' motivators, training needs, and implementation challenges.
• To inform improvements in nutrition education program delivery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving interviews with 25 FC facilitators.
• Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for thematic patterns.
• Data analysis focused on facilitators' experiences, motivations, and perceived program value.

Main Results:

• Facilitators were predominantly women with prior FC experience.
• Motivations included job alignment and interest in gerontology.
• Training was perceived positively, but implementation challenges like recruitment and time management were noted.
• Facilitators affirmed the importance of FC content and audience interest.

Conclusions:

• FC facilitators reported satisfaction with the program.
• Enhanced training could optimize facilitator experiences and program effectiveness.
• Ongoing feedback from program educators is essential for program success and audience needs alignment.