Only anecdotal information is known about foods available in the
home of hospital-discharged older adults. This study describes the
home food environment of this population and examines associations
between health=nutrition risk factors and ability to shop and
prepare meals. Data were collected from 512 hospital-discharged
older adults residing in 6 U.S. states; food available within the
home was assessed. Most households had a variety of food present;
however, 20% of households lacked fresh fruit, 15% lacked fresh
vegetables, and 35% had no fresh meat. About 35% of participants
reported an inability to both prepare meals and shop for food.
Among those unable to do both activities, the prevalence of depressive
symptoms, food-related anxiety, and poor self-rated health was
significantly (p < 0.01) higher than those able to do both activities.
Homebound older adults may face additional challenges to