Characterizing Intervention Opportunities Among Home-Delivered Meals Program Participants: Results from the 2017 National Survey of Older Americans Act Participants and a New York City Survey

Background: The Home Delivered Meals Program (HDMP) serves a vulnerable population of adults aged 60 and older who may benefit from technological services to improve health and social connectedness. Objective: The objectives of this study are (a) to better understand the needs of HDMP participants, and (b) to characterize the technology-readiness and the utility of delivering information via the computer. Design: We analyzed data from the 2017 NSOAAP to assess the health and functional status and demographic characteristics of HDMP participants. We also conducted a telephone survey to assess technology use and educational interests among NYC HDMP participants. Measurements: Functional measures of the national sample included comorbidities, recent hospitalizations, and ADL/IADL limitations. Participants from our local NYC sample completed a modified version of the validated Computer Proficiency Questionnaire. Technology readiness was assessed by levels of technology use, desired methods for receiving health information, and interest in learning more about virtual senior centers. Results: About one-third (32.4%) of national survey HDMP participants (n=902) reported insufficient resources to buy food and 17.1% chose between food or medications. Within the NYC HDMP participant survey sample (n=33), over half reported having access to the internet (54.5%), 48.5% used a desktop or laptop, and 30.3% used a tablet, iPad, or smartphone. Conclusion: The HDMP provides an opportunity to reach vulnerable older adults and offer additional resources that can enhance social support and improve nutrition and health outcomes. Research is warranted to compare technological readiness of HDMP participants across urban and rural areas in the United States.