The study comprised two components: a researcheradministered
questionnaire completed with managers or
designated others (e.g. nurses and/or cooks) in 50 rest
homes; and observation of the dining environment, including
informal conversations with residents. Each student
researcher observed four to six rest homes. The study had
NZ Health and Disability Ethics Committee approval.
The sample was a convenience sample. Dietitians consulting
with rest homes around the country were asked to
provide the names of facilities to approach for the study. Of
100 facilities contacted by the University of Otago Dietetic
Training Programme, 54 responded positively, 52 were
selected, and two withdrew before data collection commenced.
Several others expressed interest, but did not meet
the inclusion criteria requiring rest homes to be caring for
residents assessed as SNL 3–4 on the NZ Health and Disability
Support Needs Level scale. These are people without
dementia qualifying for rest home level care. Participating
rest homes were spread across nine regions: six in the North
Island, and three in the South Island.
The questionnaire was developed by the academic supervisors
(registered dietitians) to investigate use of practices in
relation to food and nutrition. It was peer-reviewed by professional
supervisors (registered dietitians), and pilot-tested
in one rest home. The questionnaire comprised 19 major
questions, covering demographics, staffing, dining environment,
menu, meals and snacks, special dietary requirements,
nutrition care, medications, regulations and nutritionrelated
policy, and residents’ access to sunlight.
The 15-page questionnaire was mailed to managers of
participating rest homes prior to the student researchers’
planned observation days to enable some pre-preparation
time. On site, students interviewed managers and recorded
quantitative and qualitative data onto the questionnaire pro
forma, including additional information from cooks, registered
nurses or other caregivers.
Observations by student researchers validated responses
to the questionnaire. At least two meals in each facility were
observed, and students spoke informally with residents.