Food Is Medicine: A Vital Initiative for Older Adult Health

In Hampton Roads, a quiet crisis is unfolding—one that affects our most seasoned citizens and
highlights a critical link between nutrition and health. Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia’s
latest initiative, “Food Is Medicine,” addresses this urgent issue head-on. This program is more
than just a meal delivery service; it is a lifeline for older adults who are at significant risk due to
malnutrition and its life-threatening consequences.

Understanding the gravity of this situation is crucial. Currently, about 10% of the roughly
170,000 seniors living in our community are malnourished, which not only compromises their
health but also their ability to lead a fulfilling life. Malnutrition in older adults can precipitate
severe health issues, including increased risk of heart disease, frequent falls, higher hospital
readmissions, and exacerbated chronic diseases. Moreover, inadequate nutrition serves as a
precursor to more dire circumstances such as homelessness.

The demographics of Hampton Roads and Western Tidewater reflect a broader national
trend—the older adult population is growing faster than any other. This rapid growth brings an
escalating need for specialized services, particularly in nutrition. Recognizing that good health
and longevity begin with proper nutrition, Senior Services is stepping up to meet this demand.

“Food Is Medicine” offers a twofold solution: providing fully prepared, nutritionally balanced
meals delivered daily to the homes of those with limited mobility, and serving similar meals at
our senior centers for those who can participate in community gatherings. These meals are more
than just food; they are carefully tailored meals designed to meet the specific dietary needs of
older adults, ensuring they receive the nutrients essential for their well-being.

However, our ability to serve is currently hampered by funding shortages. At present, we have a
growing waiting list of 50 homebound older adults in desperate need of these life-sustaining
meals. Furthermore, our capacity to provide meals at senior centers is also constrained, limiting
the number of older adults we can serve.

The implications of these shortages are profound. Every day that an older adult goes without
proper nutrition, their risk of severe health complications escalates. This is not merely a health
issue—it is a community issue. As residents of Hampton Roads, we have a collective
responsibility to ensure that our elder neighbors are not only surviving but thriving.

Why should you care? Because one day, we will all reach our golden years. The foundation we
lay now for dealing with these challenges will determine the quality of life for many, possibly
even ourselves or our loved ones, in the future.

The challenge is significant, but not insurmountable. With increased community support and
funding, we can eliminate these waiting lists and ensure that every older adult in our community
has access to the nutritious meals they need. Investing in “Food Is Medicine” is not just an
investment in the health of individual seniors—it’s an investment in the health of our entire
community.

Your support can come in many forms: donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
Every action counts. Consider the impact of ensuring that one more senior receives a daily,
nutritious meal—it’s a small step toward promoting health, dignity, and stability in their lives.

We invite you to join us in this vital initiative. Together, we can transform the phrase “Food Is
Medicine” from a hopeful statement into a tangible reality for all older adults in Hampton Roads
and Western Tidewater. Let’s work together to ensure local seniors are well-fed, cared for, and
respected.

For more information and to learn how you can help, visit our website at ssseva.org. Your
partnership will make a profound difference. Remember, good health and longevity start with
good food.

Steve Zollos is the Chief Executive Officer of Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia,
our local Area Agency on Aging. Senior Services has provided essential services for
individuals age 60 and over since 1972.