ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the types and providers of nutrition support in a larger sample and describes the satisfaction of the respondents with the provision and providers of nutrition support. It considers both informal and formal sources of support, explores the satisfaction of the respondents with proffered support and examines strengths and weaknesses of the support system. The functions of social support are to supply the knowledge and encouragement the purposeful recipient needs for success. The most common diet is a low fat regime mentioned by over one-half of the subjects. The low sodium diet appears to originate more often from physicians than from subjects. Subjects appear more concerned with avoiding irritating foods than do their physicians. Group meals includes both the federal congregate meal program and other regularly scheduled meal programs, such as soup kitchens. Eating at another person’s home refers to invitations on a regular basis, once a month or more.
