MealMate: improving the nutritional status of elders using a milk-based nutritional supplement

MealMate was a longitudinal research project conducted by the staff at the Geriatric Health Institute, a joint venture between Sioux Valley Hospital and the University of South Dakota School of Medicine. During Fall 1994, 64 older adults enrolled in this nutrition study at a Sioux Falls congregate dining site and drank a half-pint of whole milk combined with Carnation Instant Breakfast daily for one month. Pre-test and post-test data collected included anthropometric measures, specific blood tests from a venipuncture blood draw and use of standardized instruments to assess nutritional risk, depression, mental status and general demographic information. Results suggest that a longitudinal study with elders can be done effectively (attrition rate of less than 11%). While elders were very healthy at the onset, they nevertheless showed improved nutritional status over time. Laboratory tests showed significant increases in Vitamin D levels in adults over age 79. Using a more malnourished, home-bound sample of elders over age 79 and adding only whole milk to their diets are discussed as possible considerations for future research.