The original item was published from January 29, 2020 11:13 AM to January 30, 2020 8:47 AM
Aging Commission of the Mid-South
Prioritizing Senior Hunger
Despite strong financial markets, millions of seniors in the United States are going without enough food. The State of Senior Hunger in America annual report documents the prevalence of food insecurity among the senior population age 60 and older in the United States. Research shows that in 2019, 5.5 million seniors (nearly 8% of the senior population) were food insecure. The current number of seniors who are food insecure has more than doubled since 2001. Senior food insecurity is at a rate of 17% in Memphis, a sobering statistic that is a call to action.
The Aging Commission of the Mid-South is the single source seniors need to answer all of their questions from Medicare, in-home care, adult day care, and food insecurity. If you are aware of a senior who is suffering from food insecurity, they may qualify for Meals on Wheels or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides benefits to eligible, low- income individuals and families via an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card. This card can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food in authorized retail food stores. Adequate nutrition is necessary for health, functionality, and the ability to remain independent. Healthy eating can increase mental acuity, resistance to illness and disease, energy levels, immune system strength, recuperation speed and the ability to manage chronic health problems. Meals on Wheels ensures that seniors have access to adequate nutrition even when family support, mobility, and resources are lacking. For more information, please contact The Aging Commission of the Mid-South at 901-222-4111.
Thank you MIFA for providing the photo.
