Baby boomers are getting older, and an adequate diet is vital to this demographic in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Data in a 2022 report from the advocacy group Feeding America said nearly 125,000 Hoosiers aged 60 and above are food insecure, unable to have consistent access to adequate amounts of nutritious food.
Carmen Cumberland, president and CEO of Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana, said the demand is growing as seniors on limited incomes are forced to make some tough decisions about their budgets.
“I think one of the biggest reasons we are seeing an increase is, fresh fruits and vegetables are kind of out of reach for a lot of seniors because they just can’t afford it at the grocery store,” Cumberland observed.
In northeast Indiana during the last fiscal year, Cumberland explained, the organization saw a 45% increase in SeniorPak food distribution. Feed the Hungry also pointed to poverty and unemployment as other reasons for food insecurity.
Older adults may have the best intentions and strive to eat balanced meals but realize other reasons are influencing their food intake.
Christiana Williams, a registered dietitian, explained the lack of food access may be affected or caused by psychological and mobility factors.
“Many of them are living alone and/or can’t drive anymore,” Williams noted. “So, there’s that potential of them feeling lonely or isolated, which can really impact their motivation to want to actually go out and choose healthy options. From that mental aspect, it can be super frustrating to lose that sense of independence – that they can’t just go out on their own like they are used to.”
Arthritis in the hands, difficulties with chewing, or a lack of having all of their teeth are other causes. According to America’s Health Ranking, Indiana ranks 47th in the nation for teeth extractions for adults age 65 and older.
Williams added additional barriers may prevent achieving a balanced diet, such as standing for long periods to prep and cook meals, which can create more limitations.
