Food Insecurity

America’s hidden pandemic

Food insecurity is caused by our community’s
unwillingness to talk about the Unmentionables.

Food Insecurity

America’s hidden pandemic

Food insecurity is caused by our community’s
unwillingness to talk about the Unmentionables.

Signs of Malnutrition

  • Loss of appetite
  • Unplanned weight loss
  • Increased illness or infection
  • Weakened muscles or loss of muscle mass
  • Clothes fitting loosely
  • Slow wound healing
  • Easy bleeding or bruising
  • Change in skin integrity
  • Feeling irritable or depressed

Be Aware

consume lower levels of key nutrients such as protein, vitamins A and C, magnesium, calcium and iron

read between the lines

The Risk

senior adults experience food insecurity are 65% more likely to be diabetic

emotional pain hurts too

Smart Solutions

Build these strategies into the care plan

knowledge is power

Find Services

Local, state, and federal programs to combat food insecurity

you’re not alone

Shop for Products

Occupational therapist recommend these products to help with eating

find comfort

Self-care

Here are some tips on how you can brighten someone’s day.

spread the love

5.2M

senior adults experienced hunger in the past year

33%

report inflation has cut their food budget

$130B

national healthcare expense due to senior adult hunger

Tip #1

Food Programs

  • Meals on Wheels
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
  • Area Agency on Aging
  • Local food pantries
  • Feeding America

Tip #2

Stop Food Insecurity

There are government programs that can help, many senior adults are experiencing food insecurity now more than ever before.  Best estimates are that more than ten percent of adults over age 65 experience persistent hunger.

Tip #3

Set Goals

If you’re beginning the road to recovery, start small. For instance, get out of bed by a certain time, or plan a household chore… or even call a friend.

Notes from the Author

Consider signing up for home delivered meals. Home-delivered meals can be a great option for older adults, people with disabilities, or those recovering from an illness, as it can help them maintain their independence and stay in their own homes. Additionally, for people with mobility issues, it can be a great way to receive nutritious meals without having to leave their home.

A home-delivered meal is a meal that is prepared and delivered to a person’s home, typically by a meal delivery service or a community organization. Home-delivered meals are usually delivered on a regular basis, such as daily or weekly. The meals are often tailored to meet the specific dietary needs and preferences of the person receiving them. They can be provided as pre-cooked, frozen meals or as fresh meals that are delivered daily or weekly.

Home-delivered meals can be funded by various sources, such as government programs, non-profit organizations, and private pay. The meals can be provided by volunteers, paid staff, or a combination of both.

Ways to Prevent Malnutrition

Who, what and when are you eating? Dietitians recommend keeping a food diary to track meals, snacks, and water intake. Dehydration is often overlooked but can cause major health problems and emergency department visit.

 

Monica Stynchula – CEO / REUNIONCare, Inc.