Improving Effectiveness of Nutrition Education Resources for Older Adults

Abstract

This article discusses published reports and studies from the past decade that focused primarily on using written or other tangible nutrition educational resources with older adults, such as brief "handouts," newsletters, brochures, booklets, curricular lessons, board games, audiotapes and videotapes. Studies of health professionals' needs and desires for such materials are also reviewed. Thirteen articles, of which four were theory-based, were found. They are summarized in tables that include details regarding the educational resource(s) used; a description of the subjects and controls, if any; the evaluation methods used; and results obtained. Ten practical suggestions are offered to help educators select or develop more effective printed, audiotape, videotape and other tangible nutrition education resources appropriate for older adults. Much research remains to be done in this area. This article is one of a series of literature reviews of topics related to nutrition education for older adults.

Development and Evaluation of a Health Promotion Program for Older Adults: Journey Through Health

“…Large print handouts that are easy to read have also been recommended because they can be read at participants' convenience, and help participants remember information following educational sessions (Taylor- Davis et al, 2000;Higgins & Barkley, 2004;Parker et al, 2011). The "Journey through Health" program included large print handouts with good contrast between text and background, and plenty of whitespace.…”

“…Furthermore, frequently repeating and reinforcing simple messages has been recommended to successfully reach older adults ; therefore, the "Journey through Health" program repeated how the overarching Dietary Guideline Consume Brochure messages could have a powerful impact on health promotion within multiple systems throughout the body. Large print handouts that are easy to read have also been recommended because they can be read at participants' convenience, and help participants remember information following educational sessions (Taylor- Davis et al, 2000;Higgins & Barkley, 2004;Parker et al, 2011).…”

Older Adults’ Preferences for Technological Nutrition Education

“…By the year 2010 however, it is estimated that more than 70% of all older adults will be using the Internet 20 , since it is becoming increasingly cost-effective and socially important to support the independence of older adults 21,4 . As baby boomers age, it is anticipated that they will be more computer literate and dependent on technology than the current older adults.…”

“…Many subjects, according to their literacy level, preferred using audiotapes instead of printed materials 42,44 . Individuals with higher literacy levels also preferred simply written materials.…”

“…However, depending on their literacy level, many individuals prefer audiotapes instead of printed materials 21,22 .Computer-based programs have also become important resources for promotion of health and nutrition education 11,23 . For example, the use of touch-screen technology and CD-ROMS for presentations require no previous familiarity with computers, minimize potential literacy barriers, and are able to meet older adults' needs and preferences 13,24 .…”