Quality of Life and the Role of Food and Eating as Described by Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Abstract

While food and eating are important determinants of health, there is limited information on how they affect quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to understand (1) the factors that impact QOL, (2) the effect of food and eating on QOL, from the perspective of community-dwelling older adults. Twenty-five older adults completed semi-structured interviews. The constant comparative method was used to assign codes to participant's responses and organize them into categories, which were used to form a conceptual framework. Five main themes emerged showing factors affecting QOL: health and vitality; independence; mental and emotional well-being; socialization and support; and activities. Four themes were identified demonstrating how food and eating affect QOL: food access and choice; food preparation; health and vitality; and food enjoyment. Relationships between themes suggest food and eating have a broad effect on factors impacting QOL. To develop and tailor community interventions to improve older adults' QOL, measurement tools should include these effects.