The Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho will join the Administration for Community Living and senior nutrition service providers across the country in celebrating the anniversary of the national Senior Nutrition Program this month.
Since 1972, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported nutrition services for older adults. Funded by the Older Americans Act, local senior nutrition programs serve as hubs for adults 60 and older to access nutritious meals and other vital services that strengthen social connections and promote health and well-being.
In a news release, the Area Agency on Aging said senior nutrition is now more important than ever. Each year in the U.S., up to half of adults over 65 at risk of malnutrition and more than 10 million face hunger. In communities throughout the U.S., including in North Idaho, older adults sometimes lack access to the high-quality, nutritious food they need to remain healthy and independent.
As part of the Senior Nutrition Program network, the agency helps older adults in the community by promoting healthy eating, decreasing social isolation and improving health. It partners with 13 senior centers in the five northern counties of Idaho to provide nutritious meals to local seniors in congregate meal settings as well as through home-delivered meals. Its program also provides connections to home and community-based services that can support independence and overall well-being.
For more than 50 years, senior nutrition services have helped create healthy, strong communities where all members can flourish, regardless of age. That’s why the Area Agency on Aging recognizes the anniversary of the national Senior Nutrition Program and its impact on the health and well-being of older adults.
Visit aaani.org for details about the Area Agency on Aging’s program and services and how community members can support senior nutrition.
Go to acl.gov/snp/celebrate for more on the national Senior Nutrition Program’s anniversary.
