Increasing Equity and Inclusion in Nutrition Services for Older Adults

Abstract

The latest version of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program (OAANP) enacted in 2020 targets those most at risk of nutritional deficiencies, social isolation, and institutionalization. Racial, ethnic, cultural, and sexual minority populations are at high risk for all 3, and yet, these populations are underrepresented in the OAANP. To reach people at risk in neighborhoods with high racial and ethnic diversity, outreach, targeting, and retention are essential. This article synthesizes information obtained through peer-reviewed and gray literature, telephone interviews of nutrition leads/directors of 9 state units on aging, and online review of state plans to present approaches and best practices in increasing equity and inclusion in the OAANP and in other similar programs.