Healthy Eating for Tomorrow: Science in Inter-Action !

The “Healthy Eating for Tomorrow: Science in Inter-Action!” exhibition was held at the INRAE campus in Cézeaux and brought together around a hundred participants. This initiative was led by RéseautAGE, in partnership with the A.N.I.S Etoilé association, and supported by the CLIC Gérontonomie Clermont Métropole, with funding from the Conférence des Financiers du Puy-de-Dôme (CDF 63).

An awareness day based on science-society dialogue

Aimed at an independent senior public, living mainly in rural areas or in precarious situations, the fair was structured around various educational formats aimed at encouraging the appropriation of knowledge: eight interactive stands led by researchers, community actors and citizens, four participatory workshops, as well as two scientific conferences.

The topics covered, representative of the work carried out at INRAE and by its partners, covered a wide spectrum: physical activity and muscle strength, plant nutrition, the role of the intestinal microbiota, polyphenols, oral health, breakfast composition, and clinical and participatory research. This system enabled a direct dialogue between science and society, in an approach that was accessible, contextualized, and adapted to the specific needs of the target audience.

Evaluation and impact: encouraging indicators

The event brought together around one hundred participants, 78 of whom completed a satisfaction questionnaire. The results were particularly positive :

• 94,9 % declare that they intend to put into practice the advice given,
• 89,7 %  consider these tips applicable to their daily lives.

Qualitative feedback demonstrates the clarity of the messages, the friendliness of the discussions, and the relevance of the content offered. Several testimonials mention intentions to change their eating habits or physical activity, highlighting the value of an approach based on active participation and practical situations.

Towards sustainable development of content

In order to ensure the sustainability of the messages transmitted during this day, several deliverables were produced: a booklet of practical advice co-constructed with all the speakers, educational sheets, mini-filmed interviews, as well as replays of the conferences and an aftermovie retracing the highlights of the event.

This show demonstrated that an interactive format, rooted in local areas and based on the convergence of science and society, can have a real impact on the eating habits of seniors. A great illustration of the role that nutritional prevention can play in healthy aging.