Research Spotlight: Improving Healthcare Never Gets Old

Editor’s Note: This story is part of the Department of Nutrition & Dietetics newsletter.

The University of North Dakota Department of Nutrition and Dietetics believes that supporting older adults isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a privilege. Their faculty members have been hard at work as part of the Geriatric Wellness Enhancement Program, a multimillion-dollar initiative aimed at improving geriatric healthcare across North and South Dakota. This program is more than a grant; it’s a movement to ensure that aging comes with dignity, independence, and good health. 

Innovative Trainings Making an Impact

Their efforts have been extensive and multifaceted, ranging from hands-on training to cutting-edge research and even social media outreach. The department’s Dr. Brenna Swanson and Dr. Danielle Villano spearheaded two innovative projects: 

• Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam Training for Preceptors: This training equips healthcare professionals to better diagnose malnutrition — a critical issue among older adults. Preceptors reported that the training not only sharpened their diagnostic skills but also improved their ability to mentor students effectively. 
• Dementia Training for N&D Students: Students who completed this training gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with dementia and those who care for them. These insights are invaluable for future dietitians working in geriatric care. 

Both trainings have shown measurable success, and their results are being prepared for publication—a testament to their impact. 

Research That Drives Change

Dr. Nathaniel Johnson played a key role in analyzing evaluation data and also presented a national online training titled “Aging, Diet, Mental Health & Maintaining Independence.” This session, offered as continuing education for healthcare providers, emphasized practical strategies for promoting independence through nutrition and mental health support. If you’re curious, the Geriatric Wellness Enhancement Program hosts free monthly continuing education sessions — check them out. 

But their commitment doesn’t stop there. Dr. Johnson also contributes to Nourish, a free online program designed to help older adults make healthy lifestyle choices. From meal planning tips to physical activity guidance, Nourish empowers participants to take charge of their health. Research tied to this program has uncovered important insights: 

• Living alone and lack of transportation can lead to poorer dietary intake and higher odds of disability in older adults 
• Older, rural residents in North Dakota had worse dietary intake, and differences in dietary intake which contributed to disparities in mental health and disability status between rural and metro counties. 

Sharing Insights Nationally

These findings have been shared at major conferences, including those hosted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Society for Nutrition, and the North Dakota Nursing Association—putting UND on the map as a leader in geriatric nutrition healthcare and research. 

And because learning should be accessible and fun, Drs. Johnson and Villano also manage social media for the Geriatric Wellness Enhancement Program under the name Dakota Geriatrics. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for bite-sized tips on healthy aging, engaging posts, and updates on their work. It’s a great way to stay connected and spread the word about lifestyle choices that make aging vibrant and fulfilling. 

So, whether you’re an alum, a healthcare professional, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of older adults, know that UND’s Nutrition and Dietetics faculty are making a difference—one training, one research study, and one social media post at a time. After all, improving healthcare never gets old!