“The United States is the most obese country in the world. It has been this way since 2012 according to a study done by Forbes Magazine. This epidemic has spread across the nation and continues to grow rapidly each year. As of today, 3 out of 5 people are either overweight or obese according to Web MD . The statistics are even more staggering when you look at adults over age 65. Almost half of that population falls into one category or another.”
“Seniors rely heavily on Social Security as their main source of income which makes it hard for them to afford food after paying other bills.”
“This issue can be looked at from two different perspectives- seniors who cannot afford healthy foods and those who want affordable nutritious foods but are not able to access them.”
“In a study done by Feeding America on Food Insecurity Among Senior Citizens, it was found that in 13 states across our great nation food insecurity among senior citizens is over 18 percent. This number greatly exceeded the national average of 12.7 percent.”
“The states with the highest level of seniors facing this problem are 1)Mississippi (18.9%) 2)Alabama (18.5%) 3)Arkansas (17.3%) 4)West Virginia (16.8%) 5=Kentucky (16.3%) and New Mexico (16.1%). The other states in the top 20 were Ohio, Tennessee, Louisiana, South Carolina, Florida and North Carolina.”
“As mentioned previously, seniors rely heavily on Social Security as their main source of income. When you look at the minimums allowed by government standards for food stamps, it is absolutely no surprise that half of America’s senior citizens are struggling to get by.”
“Food stamp allowances for seniors over age 60 without disabilities are set at $15 or $16 dollars per month.”
“With these minimal allowances there is very little chance for seniors to receive enough healthy fruits and vegetables. If they do manage to find themselves in a position where they can afford nutritious foods, then where can they buy them? The average grocery store does not carry fresh produce, making it hard for seniors who do not drive cars or live close to areas where transportation public transit is readily available to purchase accessible foods.”
“Another issue for seniors who are facing food insecurity is the time it takes to cook healthy meals. If you’re relying on frozen dinners or fast food to get by, then you’re not doing your body any favors. As people age their metabolism slows down and cooking fresh vegetables can be difficult.”
“To combat this problem, many governments at state levels offer Meals on Wheels programs where volunteers deliver freshly cooked meals right to the front door of those struggling with malnutrition.”
“The United States government has deemed these types of services essential regardless if they are federally funded or run through private companies. That means regardless of what happens with the current administration’s involvement in healthcare, Meals on Wheels will be able to continue operating as normal.”
“It is important to remember that many seniors do not want to ask for help, especially if they have always been self-sufficient. It can be hard for them to admit that they are no longer able to do things on their own and need assistance.”
“If you or someone you know is a senior citizen who is struggling with food insecurity, please do not be afraid to reach out for help. There are plenty of resources available and people who are more than happy to assist in any way possible.”