Food activities and identity maintenance among community-living older adults: A grounded theory study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. Engaging in food activities and maintaining identity are each important for productive aging. This study explored the role of food activities in identity maintenance among community-living older adults. METHOD. We used a grounded theory approach to analyze data collected in semistructured interviews with 39 predominantly White, British older adults living in West London. RESULTS. Two lifelong food identities "food lover" and "nonfoodie" were maintained in the processes of participation and maintenance and threat and compensation. The process change in meaning and identity explained the development of a third food identity"not bothered" when participants experienced being alone at the table, deteriorating health, and worry about the cost of food. CONCLUSION. Food activities that are a pleasurable and important part of daily life contribute to the maintenance of important identities and mental well-being in older adults.