Market Days Program for Healthy Aging
Author Information
Author(s): Allyson Brothers, India Luxton, Cheryl Noble, Christa Timmerman
Primary Institution: Colorado State University
Hypothesis
Does the Market Days program improve health and social connections among low-income older adults?
Conclusion
The program showed high satisfaction among participants but did not significantly improve food insecurity or social isolation.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported a 61% improvement in their sense of health.
- 31% learned new ways to prepare fresh produce.
- Participants felt a higher connection to the community.
Takeaway
The Market Days program helps older adults get fresh food and make friends, but it didn't really fix their food problems or loneliness.
Methodology
A pre-post mixed methods design was used to evaluate the program.
Limitations
The program did not show significant improvements in food insecurity or social isolation.
Participant Demographics
Low-income older adults, particularly vulnerable regarding chronic illness and mental health.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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