Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the feasibility of a remote-based nutrition education and culinary skills
program for young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Methods
Thirteen young adults with ASD (26.6 ± 4.4 years; 77% male) participated in a remote-based
nutrition program twice a week over 12 weeks. Principles of Social Cognitive Theory
were used to develop the curriculum, which focused on nutrition education and meal
preparation. Feasibility was assessed through attendance records, retention rates,
duration/frequency of participant engagement, session notes, and participant interviews.
Results
The program had a 13% refusal rate and a 7% attrition rate. Participants had a session
attendance rate of 83%. Session notes revealed that the remote format offered several
methods of participant communication and captured evidence of family support. Interview
themes included increased nutrition-related knowledge, self-efficacy, and behavioral
capability.
Conclusions and Implications
The remote-based nutrition program met feasibility benchmarks for adherence and retention
and was well-accepted by participants. A remote-based format for nutrition interventions
can reach a wider range of young adults with ASD; however, input from the target population
should be considered in the development of the program.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 24, 2023
Accepted:
November 7,
2022
Footnotes
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The authors have not stated any conflicts of interest.
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
