Promoting Healthy Nutrition to Seniors in Franklin County
Artisha Moore, SNAP-Ed Program Assistant
The U.S. Census bureau estimates 25% of Ohio’s population will be over 60 years old by the year 2030. Of those, about 13% will be living in poverty. Even more will be living on a moderate fixed income. The senior population is vulnerable to various health concerns that are exasperated by the normal aging process. However, poor nutritional habits can compound those concerns. Malnutrition in older adults can lead to a weakened immune system, poor wound healing, and decreased bone mass. In addition, common co-morbidities such as heart disease and diabetes are often driven by diet. Eating processed, high sodium, high sugar foods lead to obesity which has been associated with the leading causes of death in the United States and worldwide. This includes such chronic diseases as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. Obesity can also be associated with poorer mental health outcomes and reduced quality of life.
SNAP-Ed programming offered by OSU Extension provides seniors with evidence-based interventions designed to improved fruit and vegetable consumption and increase physical activity. Ohioans over the age of 60 can participate in six weeklong programs for an hour each week at local sites throughout the county at no cost.
Each class, delivered by SNAP-Ed program staff, focuses on teaching seniors how to choose nutritious foods within their budget. Topics include quick and easy ways to prepare meals, tips for buying food in season to maximize dollars, eating proper amounts and portions, and physical activity for aging bodies. As with all SNAP-Ed programming USDA’s MyPlate is used as the template to help participants guide their eating choices. Reminders to make your plate half fruits and vegetables, eat lean, include calcium, and choose whole grains are emphasized. Some form of physical activity is incorporated into each class.
Each class ends with a cooking demonstration and a recipe for participants to try at home. Below is a sample recipe and exercise. For more information or to schedule a program, contact Artisha Moore at 614-292-2762 or moore.4367@osu.edu.
