biostudies-literatureWhyton SBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council233https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12918464biostudies-literatureUnknown26(1)<h4>Background</h4>Approximately 450,000 older people reside in UK care homes, which is expected to almost double within 20 years. 3% of the UK population follow a plant-based diet (absent in all animal foods), 13% of whom are aged over 65. Plant-based meals are not mandatory to be offered in care homes, however, providing these meals could positively affect health, and ensure dignity of choice for those who already follow a plant-based diet. This review aims to explore contexts, mechanisms and outcomes that could influence the success of a plant-based meal study.<h4>Methodology</h4>A realist synthesis of the literature was used to develop initial programme theories. The stages of this synthesis was as follows: (1) Initial scoping. (2) Search for relevant evidence (3) Selection and appraisBMC geriatricsPlant-based diets for older adults in care homes: a realist synthesis.PMC12918464BB/T008776/1Whyton SCohen Kadosh KAdedokun PGTischler VMethven LfalsePlant-based diets for older adults in care homes: a realist synthesis.<h4>Background</h4>Approximately 450,000 older people reside in UK care homes, which is expected to almost double within 20 years. 3% of the UK population follow a plant-based diet (absent in all animal foods), 13% of whom are aged over 65. Plant-based meals are not mandatory to be offered in care homes, however, providing these meals could positively affect health, and ensure dignity of choice for those who already follow a plant-based diet. This review aims to explore contexts, mechanisms and outcomes that could influence the success of a plant-based meal study.<h4>Methodology</h4>A realist synthesis of the literature was used to develop initial programme theories. The stages of this synthesis was as follows: (1) Initial scoping. (2) Search for relevant evidence (3) Selection and apprais2026-01-01T00:00:00Z2026 Jan2026-07-16T09:16:17.429Z2026-07-09T10:46:46.048ZS-EPMC129184644158833410.1186/s12877-025-06927-0