The Role of Food in Supporting Wellbeing among Residents in Residential Aged Care: An Integrative Literature Review

Abstract: Food plays a significant role in supporting the wellbeing of older adults living in residential aged care, extending beyond its nutritional function to influence emotional, social, cultural, and psychological wellbeing. Although previous research has examined nutrition, malnutrition, and food service quality, limited attention has been given to the broader contribution of food to residents’ overall quality of life. This integrative literature review aimed to synthesise current evidence on the role of food in supporting the physical, emotional, social, and cultural wellbeing of older adults living in residential aged care. A systematic literature search was conducted across the databases CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed studies published in English between 2013 and 2025 were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria and were analysed using thematic analysis. Seven themes emerged: nutrition and physical wellbeing, resident autonomy and mealtime experience, food as an emotional and social experience, cultural appropriateness and identity, the role of staff in food satisfaction, innovation and sustainable food practices, and resident-centred models and policy implications. The findings demonstrate that food contributes to residents’ well-being by promoting dignity, autonomy, social connection, cultural identity, and quality of life, while also maintaining nutritional health. The review highlights the importance of person-centred and culturally responsive food services and identifies implications for social work practice and residential aged care policy. Further research is recommended to strengthen the evidence base through resident-centred and culturally inclusive approaches to food service delivery.