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Background Social disconnectedness, including isolation and loneliness, is a growing concern among older veterans, who are disproportionately affected and often less likely to seek assistance. Home-delivered meals offer opportunities to address social disconnectedness by combining nutritional support with routine interpersonal contact. Objective This study evaluates the feasibility and perceived impact of a veteran-adapted Meals on Wheels program integrating nutritional and social support. Methods Validated instruments assessed social isolation, loneliness, mental/physical health, and wellbeing at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Paired t-tests evaluated changes over time. Program delivery and engagement were assessed using the RE-AIM framework. Results Participants reported high baseline loneliness and social isolation. Loneliness declined significantly by weeks 4 and 8, with short-term gains in physical and mental health at week 4. No sustained changes were seen in isolation or overall wellbeing. Program retention (92%), adherence (74%), and acceptability (96%) were high, with strong fidelity and varied engagement.
Cruz et al. (Sat,) studied this question.