More than a Meal: The Relationship Between Social Support and Quality of Life in Daytime Meal Program Participants

Daytime meal programs within community senior centers provide nourishing meals and companionship in a social context for older persons who might otherwise be isolated or unable to purchase food and prepare meals for themselves. This study examined the relationship between social support and quality of life using a self-administered survey, which was completed by 182 program participants. Results indicated that participants are more frequently women who live alone and who attend for social, rather than financial reasons. Fifty-four percent (54%) experience some isolation, only occasionally socializing with others. These findings suggest that senior centers are a source of essential social support for community dwelling older adults in rural areas.