Get involved with a major new study testing how best to treat undernutrition in older adults living in care homes

The project, REFRESH, is a major new study focused on improving how undernutrition is managed in older adults living in care homes. Undernutrition increases the risk of poor health, falls, infections, and loss of independence—but better nutritional care can enhance wellbeing, reduce pressure on staff, and lower associated costs.

The study team is currently recruiting care homes in the West Midlands. Members of the West Midlands Care Association who take part would not only benefit from taking part in the project but could also play a leading role in shaping best practice nationally.

REFRESH will test three approaches to treating undernutrition:

• Fortified foods and drinks
• Oral nutritional supplements (ONS)
• Usual care (standard routines currently in place)

The goal is to assess which method leads to the greatest improvement in residents’ quality of life.

Benefits of participating include:

• Fully funded nutrition training and tailored support for your care staff
• All associated study costs covered (including oral nutritional supplements, fortified ingredients, staff time)
• Direct contribution to evidence that could inform future national policy and guidance
• Opportunity to collaborate in research designed to improve care outcomes

More information is available at the REFRESH project website.

If you'd like to get involved please contact Esther, (a research fellow at the University of Plymouth working directly on REFRESH) via refresh.penctu@plymouth.ac.uk