The Association Between Meal Enjoyment and Depressive Symptoms of Senior Care Facility Resident in Japan

Background: Previous research has reported the association between meal enjoyment and depressive symptoms at Japanese care facilities and staffs have been attempting to organize dining environment where one enjoys the meal; however, despite the staffs’ attempt to arrange the dining environment, the association between meal enjoyment and depressive symptoms could vary amongst residents with different lifestyles. In this study, we focused on socio-demographic factors and social connection of facility residents, and aimed to explore the possible interacting factors of the association. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among residents older than 65 years at senior care facility in Japan (N=190). Results: Meal enjoyment was negatively associated with the risk of depressive symptoms, and age and social connection modified the association. In a group that reportedly enjoyed the meal, people older than 85 had higher likelihood of depressive symptoms compared to younger group. Furthermore, people who enjoyed the meal but had small social connections had higher likelihood of depressive symptoms, compared to those with larger social connections. Conclusions: Findings suggest that staffs should consider residents’ age and social connections to provide adequate meal support and maintain or promote good mental health of the residents.