Nutrition

Nutrition is a key service provided by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Title VI Native American Aging Programs. By having easy access to nutritious meals, older adults are provided with opportunities for optimal health and well-being, reduced food insecurity and chances for social interaction with peers.

AAA Nutrition Services
All AAAs provide nutrition services through the Older Americans Act Title III C Nutrition Services Program. The goals of these nutrition programs are to reduce food insecurity, promote socialization among older adults and to promote the health and well-being of older adults by providing access to services that encourage a healthy lifestyle. The Older Americans Act Title III C is the largest program in the United States that provides nutrition services to older adults in need.

AAAs, working with contracted community-based partners, provide both congregate and home-delivered meals to older adults in their service areas. Congregate meals sites can include senior/community centers, senior cafes, schools, churches, farmers markets and other places where older adults gather. Home-delivered meals are available to older adults who are homebound or otherwise have difficulty getting to congregate sites. The OAA also allows AAAs to provide nutrition education, nutrition-risk screening and nutrition counseling to older adults.

Nutrition services also address the importance of social engagement among older adults. Congregate meals sites allow for older adults to meet with others and build lasting friendships. AAAs often pair nutrition services with other social activities to encourage further interaction.

Title VI Nutrition Services
Like AAAs, nutrition plays a critical role in Title VI Programs’ service to Native American elders. Eligible tribes are awarded Title VI grants to provide nutrition and supportive services. These include congregate and home-delivered meals.

Keeping with the traditions of the population they serve, Title VI programs strive to create meals that are culturally relevant to their consumers. Programs try to find creative ways to meet the needs of their elders by creating new menus each month and keeping a rotating menu that appeals to their desires. Each menu includes the traditional foods of the tribe—including vegetables, grains, fresh fish and wild game—and cooking methods. Title VI Programs often work with a nutrition expert who will advise on and approve their meals.

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