FAST-FOOD RESTAURANTS: A NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE FOR COGNITIVE FUNCTION AMONG AGING AMERICANS?

In this exploratory mixed-methods sequential design study, interviews with 125 adults aged 55-92 (mean age 71) living in the Minneapolis (Minnesota) metropolitan area suggest that large-chain fast-food restaurants such as McDonald’s may serve as reservoirs of cognitive function. Thematic analysis revealed perceived benefits of fast-food settings for older adults including familiarity and comfort; affordability; sociability with friends, family, staff, and customers; and entertainment (e.g., newspapers, crosswords). To further test these observations, we analyzed data from urban and suburban REGARDS participants. Preliminary multilevel regression models found that participants residing within 5 kilometers of a McDonald’s restaurant exhibited higher cognitive function than similar individuals who live further from said organizations (b=0.31; se=0.12). The results complicate understanding of fast-food settings and prompt further research that tests whether restaurants can serve as community spaces for older adults to help buffer against cognitive decline by fostering social interaction and mental stimulation.

Neighborhood Resource Center

The Library Partnership is a jointly operated facility that offers area residents full public library services and access to approximately thirty (30) social service agencies. The collaboration provides a unique environment for clients to receive counseling and advice from social service agencies and the resources, assistance, and services to address their needs from the public library all in one location . Clients are often referred to the library for a variety of eGovernment and other services. The presence of a public library allows potential and scheduled clients to come to the facility without the stigma often attached to entering a social service assistance center.