Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Intervention Designed to Address Malnutrition in Elderly Patients

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of group nutrition counseling compared to individualized nutrition counseling. Design: Quasi experimental trial Methods: Participants split into two groups. The knowledge change of participants was evaluated by comparing scores of pre- and post- activity. Setting: North Westchester Restorative Nursing Facility, Mohegan Lake, NY Participants: 10 residents of the nursing home enrolled in the study Intervention: Each group participated in an activity in which they determined the daily serving recommendations of sorted various food groups. After an educational lesson, the participants performed the same activity. Results: The 1-on-1 counseled participants showed a statistically significant improvement. There was no statistically significant difference shown among group-counseled participants. Conclusion: The study indicates that 1-on-1 counseling is a more effective method of nutrition intervention compared to group counseling