When compared to other age demographics, seniors experience food insecurity at a disproportionately high level. Many hunger resources fail to meet the needs of food insecure seniors. NCOA states that 3 out of 5 seniors who would qualify for SNAP benefits do not participate, often because of barriers related to mobility, technology, and social stigma.
On top of food insecurity, many seniors also face isolation or a lack of social companionship. The CDC differentiates loneliness and social isolation, stating that “loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact. Social isolation is a lack of social connections. Social isolation can lead to loneliness in some people, while others can feel lonely without being socially isolated.” According to the CDC, one in four elderly Americans are considered to be socially isolated. This can have major impacts both on physical and mental health – social isolation and loneliness are associated with increased risks of dementia, stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, a weakened immune system, depression, anxiety, and suicide.