Senior centers’ meals programs play a vital role in improving participants’ nutritional status, particularly for those with limited incomes and other nutritional risk factors. When they dine at senior centers or meal sites, participants also have the opportunity to see friends and engage in other wellness activities and education.

The Aging and Long-Term Services Department provides funding for meals and nutrition education at senior centers, meal sites and in people’s homes.

Cooks prepare meals that are appealing to seniors and acknowledge cultural and ethnic preferences. Each meal must provide one-third of the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA).

Are You Eligible?

You are, if you:

• Are 60 or older (55 for Native Americans), or your spouse is;

• You have a disability and you live with an eligible elder.

For home-delivered meals, you must be homebound and unable to participate at a senior center because of an impairment. You must be unable to obtain and prepare meals and not have family support.

Learn more about healthy eating and lifestyle at these sites:

Senior Food Pyramid

Download a Printable Version of the Pyramid (404K)
Download the Guide to the Modified Food Pyramid (420K)

USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center

Osteoporosis Information

American Diabetes Association

American Heart Association

       Delicious Decisions from the American Heart Association

 

Click here for information for food service providers