Evaluating the Eating Matters Program's impact on nutrition for elderly patients

Evaluating the Impact of a Volunteer Based Mealtime Assistance Program on the Nutritional Status of Patients at Joseph Brant Hospital in Ontario, Canada

Not applicable Interventional Joseph Brant Hospital · NCT04445883

This study tests if a program that helps elderly patients eat better can improve their nutrition and reduce the risk of malnutrition in the hospital.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorJoseph Brant Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Burlington, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT04445883 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research evaluates the Eating Matters Program at Joseph Brant Hospital, which provides feeding assistance to improve the nutritional intake of elderly patients. The study compares nutritional outcomes between patients receiving assistance and those who do not, focusing on protein and energy intake. A total of 80 participants will be involved, with data collected over a 6-day period to assess the program's effectiveness in reducing malnutrition risk. The study aims to provide insights into innovative strategies for addressing hospital malnutrition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 65 and over admitted to Medicine and Rehabilitation units at Joseph Brant Hospital who require eating assistance.

Not a fit: Patients who are NPO, require enteral or total parenteral feeding, are in palliative care, or have severe cognitive impairment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance the nutritional status and overall health of elderly patients in medical rehabilitation.

How similar studies have performed: While research on similar feeding assistance programs is limited in Canada, existing studies have shown positive outcomes in improving nutritional intake in hospital settings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients 65 years and over admitted to Medicine and Rehabilitation units at Joseph Brant Hospital with an anticipated stay 10-14 days
* Patients with a Subjective Global Assessment score of B or C, and identified to require eating assistance
* Patients able to provide consent or have a Power of Attorney to do so on their behalf

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients that are NPO status (nothing by mouth)
* Patients that require enteral or total parenteral feeding
* Palliative care patients
* Severe cognitive impairment

Where this trial is running

Burlington, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Food Intake
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.