Healthy Cooking for Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities 

Cooking at home is one of the best ways to eat healthier, save money, and stay independent—but as we age or experience disability-related challenges, meal preparation can become more difficult. Limited mobility, fatigue, chronic pain, or changes in taste and appetite can all make cooking feel overwhelming.

The good news? Cooking at home does not need to be time-consuming and complicated to be delicious and healthy. In this article we will discuss a few ways to make cooking healthy meals at home more accessible, easy, and fun!

👉 Read the full article now on our blog​

Spotlight on Support: Produce Bag Program

Access Care Partners is pleased to highlight a fresh and nourishing opportunity for eligible consumers through our 2025 Farmer’s Market Produce Bag Program. With the support of USDA funding through the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, our Nutrition Department has been awarded resources to distribute 356 produce bags, each valued at $25, to homebound older adults. 

What’s Included? 

In partnership with McKinstry’s Market, each bag will feature a variety of fresh, locally grown produce and herbs. These seasonal selections are thoughtfully assembled to promote better health, improved nutrition, and greater food security for older adults living at home. 

Eligibility Criteria for 2025 

To receive a produce bag, you must: 

• Be over the age of 60 
• Meet one of the following income guidelines: 
• Household of 1: Monthly income at or below $2,413 (or $28,956 annually) 
• Household of 2: Monthly income at or below $3,152 (or $39,128 annually) 

You must also be an Access Care Partners consumer to participate. Please note that you do not need to be enrolled in the Home Delivered Meals program to receive a produce bag. 

How to Request a Bag 

If you meet the eligibility guidelines and are interested in participating, please contact your Care Manager. Bags are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Supporting Health Through Nutrition 

The Produce Bag Program is one of many ways Access Care Partners supports the health and independence of older adults across our community. By connecting consumers with high-quality local food, we are investing in stronger bodies, fuller plates, and more vibrant lives. 

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. 

📞 Call us at 413-538-9020 or visit our website to learn more or get connected to your Care Manager to request a bag.