Effectiveness Trial of Functional Ice Cream vs. a Traditional Oral Liquid Nutrition Supplement in Community-Dwelling Older Adult at Risk for Malnutrition: A Pilot Study

Research Objectives:
We are seeking 20 adults who have been recommended to take an Oral Liquid Nutrition Supplement (OLNS) by their healthcare provider to participate in a research study. This clinical study aims to test our research strategy for understanding tolerance (comfort) and adherence (frequency, duration of use) for a nutritional ice cream alternative!
Participation in this research will last for no more than 12 weeks, and involves consuming both our ice cream, and a traditional OLNS, which the research team will deliver to you. In addition, we will ask you questions about the product, and about your nutrition, quality of life, and demographics. You will also be asked to perform short physical assessments in the home setting.
Principal Investigator:
Jonathan Deutsch, Professor, Food and Hospitality Management, Drexel University (PI)
Rose Ann DiMaria-Ghalili, Professor, Nursing, Drexel University (Co-I)
Brandy-Joe Milliron, Associate Professor, Nutrition Sciences, Drexel University (Co-I)
Kathleen Fisher, Professor, Nursing, Drexel University (Co-I)
Information for Research Subjects Eligibility:
You must be at least 50 years old and have been recommended an Oral Liquid Nutrition Supplement (OLNS) by your healthcare provider to participate in this research study. Additionally, you must:
- Reside at an address within 30 miles of Philadelphia
- Have access to a freezer to store ice cream
- Have access to a phone
You are not eligible to participate if you:
- Have any major food allergies including peanuts, tree nuts, and/or eggs
- Are lactose, dairy or gluten intolerant
- Are currently or have previously experienced difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Are at risk for severe malnutrition
- Live in an assisted living or continuing care retirement community
Remuneration:
For your participation in our study, you may be paid up to a total of $150.
Location of the research and person to contact for further information:
Data Collection will take place in the homes of community-dwelling older adults within 30 miles of Philadelphia, or in a private office on-site with external stakeholder organizations. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact us with your phone number, and the best time to reach you.
Email: coultericecream@drexel.edu
This research is approved by the Institutional Review Board and is conducted by a researcher who is a member of Drexel University.