Nutrition for Older Vermonters
Nutrition for older Vermonters is a vital component of maintaining health and enhancing quality of life as we age. With the unique dietary needs and health considerations of older adults in mind, it’s essential to focus on balanced, nutrient-rich foods that support physical well-being and cognitive function. In Vermont, programs and initiatives are tailored to address these needs, offering resources and support to ensure that older residents have access to healthy meals and nutritional guidance. By prioritizing proper nutrition, we can help older Vermonters lead vibrant, active lives and manage chronic conditions effectively.
More about Nutrition for Older Vermonters
The nutrition programs funded by the Older Americans Act developed separate MTM programs to complement other offerings. Meals on Wheels, for example, offers home delivery, access to nutrition services and care coordination, and an RD-designed meal plan that reflects changing nutritional needs as we age.
The following resources provide more information on the capacity of non-MTM meals programs to integrate with the health care system to support treatment of diet-related health conditions:
- Meals on Wheels America – Overview of OAA Nutrition Programs and health care integration research on Outcomes-Based Financing for Health Care Partnerships , Care Coordination , Malnutrition Across Transitions in Care.
- Conference Discussion on Integrating MTMs with Senior Nutrition Programs (August, 2019)
- Panel on Food Is Medicine for Older Adults (2021)
Medically Tailored Meal Preparation-training resources to support the production of texture-modified and low-sodium meals.
Soft Foods – Pureed
Resources
Tips and Recipes for Pureed Foods
Soft Foods – Minced & Moist
Resources
Tips and Recipes for Minced & Moist
Soft Foods – Soft & Bite Sized
Resources
Tips and Recipes for Soft & Bite Sized
Tips for Low-Sodium Cooking
Resources
Tips and Recipes for Low Sodium
Resources for Older Vermonters
Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging
A network of five non-profit Area Agencies on Aging serving communities across Vermont, dedicated to supporting older Vermonters and their families. Services include caregiver support, health insurance counseling, transportation, senior nutrition programs like Meals on Wheels, adult day programs, home health services, housing options, exercise and wellness programs and resources to help Veterans live independently at home.
Vermont Center for Independent Living
Serving all of Vermont, VCIL is a non-profit that is directed and staffed by people with disabilities. As part of a network of independent living centers nationwide, VCIL is committed to providing services for individuals with all types of disabilities, fostering active citizenship and collaborating with others to create services that support free choice and full participation in community life.
DAIL (Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living)
Older Americans Act Reports and Older Americans Act Services
A state agency that focuses on supporting Vermonters with disabilities, older adults, and individuals needing assistance to live independently. DAIL’s services include programs related to developmental disabilities, aging services, vocational rehabilitation, and initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable adults and promoting independent living.
Tristate Learning Collaborative
CHEF Webinar: Food As Medicine
Hosted by the Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging, this webinar explores how organizations are using food-based interventions to help prevent, manage and treat disease and illness as we age. This webinar highlights produce prescriptions and medically tailored meals.
Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging
The Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging (TSLCA) is a regional initiative that connects professionals, organizations, and community members across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Its goal is to support the development of age-friendly communities and improve services for older adults in these three states. The collaborative fosters learning, sharing of best practices, and networking among those working on aging-related issues. TSLCA offers webinars, workshops, and other learning opportunities to promote collaboration and innovative solutions in areas such as housing, transportation, health care, and social support for older adults
Nutrition for Older Adults Webinar
Supporting Older Adults to Eat Healthy – Food and Nutrition Resources
Watch the “Supporting Older Adults to Eat Healthy – Food and Nutrition Resources” webinar to learn about the unique nutritional needs of older adults and how to support them in maintaining a healthy diet. The session covers practical tips, available resources, and strategies for overcoming common barriers to food access and nutrition in older populations. This is an invaluable resource for caregivers, health care providers, and anyone interested in improving the health and well-being of older adults.
Research Corner
Contact Us
Interested in learning more? Contact us at Bi-State Primary Care Association for more information.
