LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — “Serving Up Solutions” is the theme for this year’s National Senior Nutrition Month, bringing attention to the need for healthy, nutritious foods for older adults.
According to USAging, 13 million seniors experienced food insecurity in 2025, meaning they lacked reliable access to nutritious meals on a regular basis.
Locally, the Area Agency on Aging 3 is working to break down barriers that older adults face across the region. Officials encourage seniors to sign up for local programs such as Meals on Wheels and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program to help improve access to healthy food.
However, officials say food access is only part of the challenge. Dre White, vice president of Community Living Services with the Area Agency on Aging 3, says rising food costs, transportation issues and overall well-being can make it harder for seniors to maintain healthy diets.
Dre White, VP Community Living Services AAA3:
"I think many are surprised with, you know, How challenging is for many of our seniors to access healthy foods. The rising cost of food is a challenge as well transportation and just overall, you know, well being plays a factor as well, as you know when it comes to diets. So I think it's an important time to understand those those challenges and those barriers that our aging population is seeing."
White says meals can also provide an important social connection for seniors. He encourages people who know an older adult living alone to consider inviting them over for a meal, bringing food to them or taking them out for dinner. To learn more about nutrition programs offered through the Area Agency on Aging 3, call (419) 222-7723.
