The association of communal vs. solitary dining on nutritional intake and depression risk in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Global population aging and the transition toward empty-nest households have sharply increased solitary dining. This change in meal pattern is a key concern in geriatric health.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the differences in dietary intake and depression risk between communal and solitary dining among community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, we synthesized evidence from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library from database inception through December 2025. Effect sizes were pooled using random-effects models. The PROSPERO registration of this systematic review and meta-analysis is CRD420251177507.

RESULTS

Of 12,088 records screened, 21 studies were included (11 Japan, 4 South Korea, 3 USA, 1 UK, 1 China, 1 Brazil, 1 Sweden; 16 high-quality, 5 moderate-quality per AHRQ). Compared to solitary dining, commensality is significantly associated with higher total energy intake (MD = 109.51 kcal, 17.39-201.62; P = 0.047), dietary fat intake (MD = 4.07 g, 95% CI 0.14-7.99, P = 0.0489), and meat/seafood consumption (MD = 21.28 g, 95% CI 2.27-40.29, P = 0.011). Solitary dining is a potent risk factor for depression (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.33-1.87, P < 0.001). Across mealtimes, the highest depression risk is associated with solitary dinner (OR = 2.13, 1.57-2.89, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Communal dining is associated with a reduced risk of nutritional inadequacy and psychological distress through integrated mechanisms of social engagement and dietary diversification. Our findings support the inclusion of commensality as a strategic, non-pharmacological component in global geriatric health policy.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251177507, identifier: CRD420251177507.