Hemlevererade måltider

: en utforskande studie av äldre svenskars uppfattningar och acceptans

Abstract

Background: Approximately 48 000 meals are distributed to home-dwelling older adults every day in Sweden. The ability to influence the meals is of great importance for the quality of life and therefore it is important to include the views, needs and wishes of older adults when structuring the food distribution service.

Objective: The purpose is to explore the perceptions and acceptability of home delivered meals among home-dwelling older adults and professional caregivers.

Methods: The present study was the first qualitative phase of a mixed method study with an exploratory sequential design. Qualitative data was collected from five older adults >65 in five municipalities and two caregivers through interviews.

Results: Most of the participants were able to choose from two alternative dishes every day and they were pleased with the selection of dishes most of the time. Overall the menus were considered variated and seasonal and holiday themes were highly valued. The Swedish cuisine was their favorite, however many ethnic dishes were appreciated as well. The meals were considered delicious, however the texture of the vegetables, potatoes and meat was not optimal.

Conclusions: Sometimes two alternative dishes were not considered enough. More and a broader selection of dishes might increase older adults feeling of independence but also help meeting expectations of older adults with different cultural backgrounds. Familiar dishes, a conscious choice of condiments, enhanced flavors and improved textures and appearance might compensate for deteriorating senses. Descriptive information about the meals on the menus might also help meeting older adults’ expectations.