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Formative Evaluation of a Home-Delivered Meal Program to Enhance Social Connection Among Homebound Older Veterans

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BackgroundSocial disconnectedness, including isolation and loneliness, is a growing concern among older veterans, who are disproportionately affected and often less likely to seek assistance. Home-delivered meals offer opportunities to address social disconnectedness by combining nutritional support with routine interpersonal contact.ObjectiveThis study evaluates the feasibility and perceived impact of a veteran-adapted Meals on Wheels program integrating nutritional and social support.MethodsValidated instruments assessed social isolation, loneliness, mental/physical health, and wellbeing at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Paired t-tests evaluated changes over time. Program delivery and engagement were assessed using the RE-AIM framework.ResultsParticipants reported high baseline loneliness and social isolation. Loneliness declined significantly by weeks 4 and 8, with short-term gains in physical and mental health at week 4. No sustained changes were seen in isolation or overall wellbeing. Program retention (92%), adherence (74%), and acceptability (96%) were high, with strong fidelity and varied engagement.

Source: Journal of Applied Gerontology

DOI: 10.1177/07334648261451906

Authors: Melissa R. Cruz, Aanand D. Naik, Jason Burnett, Jack Tsai, Vanessa Schick

Institution: The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Language: English

Topic: Nutrition and Health in Aging

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,400