Which statement best describes the role of social meal programs in addressing under-nutrition risk for older adults?

Which statement best describes the role of social meal programs in addressing under-nutrition risk for older adults?

• A. They are a strategy to address under-nutrition risk by providing meals and social engagement
• B. They are for exercise groups only
• C. They replace the need for education
• D. They are not recommended

Answer: (A)

Social meal programs help address under-nutrition risk by combining nutritious meals with social engagement. Regular, appetizing meals ensure older adults receive adequate energy and protein, while sharing meals reduces loneliness and isolation that can dampen appetite and lead to poorer intake. Many programs also include simple nutrition screening, education, or connections to other supports, which helps sustain healthy eating and links people to additional resources if needed. They’re not about exercise groups, they don’t replace nutrition education, and they’re generally recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting good nutrition in later life.

Social meal programs help address under-nutrition risk by combining nutritious meals with social engagement. Regular, appetizing meals ensure older adults receive adequate energy and protein, while sharing meals reduces loneliness and isolation that can dampen appetite and lead to poorer intake. Many programs also include simple nutrition screening, education, or connections to other supports, which helps sustain healthy eating and links people to additional resources if needed. They’re not about exercise groups, they don’t replace nutrition education, and they’re generally recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting good nutrition in later life.