AbstractsSociology

Oregon meal programs for the elderly

by Dorothy Lynn Pritchard




Institution: Oregon State University
Department: Institution Management
Degree: MS
Year: 1973
Keywords: Meals on wheels programs  – Oregon
Record ID: 1491022
Full text PDF: http://hdl.handle.net/1957/45099


Abstract

The purposes of this study were to identify, analyze and compare various Oregon meal programs for the elderly. Twenty-one separate meal programs were identified throughout the state by contacting state, county, and local groups concerned with the elderly. A survey was made by questionnaire to obtain basic information about each program. Analysis of data from the 21 completed questionnaires revealed that programs were located in Oregon communities of all sizes throughout 14 of the 36 counties. Over one-half were located in the populous Willamette Valley region. Many of the programs had developed recently with only five being in operation more than two years at the time of the survey. Programs were started and supported with the help of the churches, schools, community and local, state or federal government. Goals of the programs most often mentioned included providing low cost or nutritious meals, or social contact. The number of participants per day ranged from very few (six) to a great many (1300). Few eligibility restrictions were put on those who wished to attend with most programs specifying only age as a criterion. These participants were located by advertising, other senior citizens, churches, public agencies, as well as other sources. Outreach was used rarely. Meals were typically prepared on- site for the participant at school and church sites. Several programs utilized a central kitchen or contracted meals. In most instances participants contributed a nominal sum for meals. Volunteer help from churches, community and clubs were used extensively in Oregon meal programs. Paid personnel were few; many programs hired only a cook. Most programs served a cafeteria style noon meal five times per week. Menus for these meals, which were planned by school personnel, program chairmen, cooks, nutritionists or others, were analyzed for nutritive content. Six of the programs fell below standard in more than two categories when compared to one-third recommended dietary allowances for men; only three were below standard in more than two categories for women.