Innovating the Iowa Congregate Nutrition Program: A Needs and Preference Assessment.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health Nutrition
• Community Health Programs

Background:

• Participation in the Congregate Nutrition Program (CNP) is declining.
• Understanding factors influencing older adult engagement is crucial for program sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify motivators and barriers to CNP participation among older adults.
• To explore preferences for CNP menus, facility attributes, and educational programming.
• To inform strategies for increasing CNP enrollment and engagement.

Main Methods:

• Four focus groups were conducted with CNP participants and non-participants.
• Qualitative data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for thematic patterns.
• Participant demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, education, food security) were collected.

Main Results:

• Key motivators for CNP participation included affordability, healthy meals, socialization, and convenience.
• Significant barriers identified were limited program awareness, perceived low need, and transportation challenges.
• Participants desired menu choice, diverse activities, and a welcoming atmosphere; preferred marketing included print and word-of-mouth.

Conclusions:

• Modifying the CNP to include greater menu variety, more activities, and improved ambiance can enhance appeal.
• Targeted outreach addressing awareness and transportation barriers is essential for increasing participation.
• Marketing strategies should leverage print media and community word-of-mouth to reach older adults.