| Detailed Objective: This project supports dissemination of Food Assistance Nutrition Research Program intramural and extramural research on the elderly, the factors that influence their diets, and the role that USDA food assistance and nutrition programs can play in maintaining or improving the nutrition and health status of the elderly.
The elderly make up a growing segment of the U.S. population. Several USDA food assistance and nutrition programs provide services to the elderly, yet many eligible elderly do not participate in these programs. In particular, the low proportion of eligible low-income elderly who participate in the Food Stamp Program has been identified as a policy concern. Other USDA programs, such as the Child and Adult Care Food Program, can provide food and nutrition services to elderly individuals in settings that allow them to avoid costly institutionalized care. ERS staff prepared a short report on the dietary intakes and food security status of the elderly and the USDA food assistance and nutrition programs available to them. This report will be included in the Journal of Nutrition Education Special Issue for the Elderly. This special issue is being supported by ERS, USDA's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, and other groups concerned with promoting the nutritional well-being of the nation's elderly population. It should reach a broad target audience of nutritionists, health professionals, and others working with the elderly population and with food and nutrition programs and services.
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