The Role of Homecare in Addressing Food and Drink Care-Related Needs and Supporting Outcomes for Older Adults: An International Scoping Review

Abstract

Context: The contribution of homecare services to supporting older adults with their food and drink-related needs and improving outcomes has been relatively underexplored. Objective: To identify the literature on the role of homecare in addressing older adults’ food and drink care-related needs and improving outcomes. Method: Scoping review. Systematic searches were conducted in four databases. Inclusion criteria were studies (any method) of food and drink-related needs and/or outcomes of older adults accessing homecare. Identified records were screened by title/abstract and, if eligible, full text against eligibility criteria. Selected records (n = 22) were charted. Full texts were analysed thematically. Findings: Three themes were identified: (1) conceptualisation of food and drink outcomes/needs; (2) the role of homecare in supporting older adults, including barriers and facilitators and (3) innovative service delivery models or interventions. The literature tended to focus on supporting nutrition and avoiding malnutrition. Some studies focussed on the role of person-centred homecare in improving older people’s quality of life, by considering the social, personal and cultural or religious aspects of food and drink. Barriers to the delivery of high-quality care by homecare workers included short visits, lack of training and poor communication with family and healthcare professionals. Innovative interventions or service delivery models did not always consider the actual or potential role of homecare. Limitations: Diverse definitions of homecare, internationally, were a challenge to identifying literature and drawing conclusions. Implications: Further research is needed on the role of homecare in supporting older adults with their food and drink needs, especially in designing and implementing innovative interventions and models of service delivery.