Impact of a Community-Based Nutrition Intervention Focused on Older Latinas

Introduction: Latinos in the U.S. face challenges that negatively impact their health by increasing their vulnerability to develop sedentary behaviors, inadequate nutritional patterns and the resulting chronic diseases.  These challenges are especially prevalent among older females. The purpose of this study was to improve the quality of diet in older Latinas through a community-based intervention called Abuelas en Acción (Grandmothers in Action).

Methods: Latinas aged 50 and older were recruited from a Roman Catholic parish located in Chicago, Illinois.  Abuelas en Accíón consisted of a face-to-face interview to set individual nutrition and physical activity goals, 6 monthly educational workshops, and follow-up phone calls.  Activities were led by trained volunteers (promotoras) recruited from the community. Participants (n=19) completed standardized food frequency questionnaires and 24 hour-food recalls before and after the intervention. Activities were conducted in Spanish.

Results: Changes in eating patterns were observed including an increase in the number of participants that had breakfast, lunch and dinner every day (X²<0.05), and a significant increase in the weekly vegetable consumption (p <0.05). No significant differences were found in the intake of calories or other nutrients, but a small reduction was observed in calories, fat, and sugar intake.

Discussion: The program resulted in improvements in eating patterns, demonstrating that a community-based intervention, delivered by trained community volunteers has the potential to have a positive impact on health outcomes. Furthermore, by targeting grandmothers, many of whom serve in a caregiving capacity, the program can extend benefits to other family members, particularly grandchildren.