Malnutrition in Vulnerable Populations

Women In Government Podcast

Women In Government Podcast Malnutrition in Vulnerable Populations So many aspects of our daily lives have changed since COVID-19 entered the picture. As we continue readjusting to the “new normal,” some familiar concerns have remained and come with a set of severe consequences. Food insecurity has plagued different American populations for decades, but has been compounded by the recent pandemic. The novel Coronavirus is disproportionately impacting older generations. With the closure of congregate meal sites and the increase in newly homebound older adults, there is now a higher demand for Older Americans Act (OAA) programs, such as Home Delivered Meals and other community-based supportive services. However, these much needed resources have been strained and need some relief. On this episode of the Women In Government Podcast, our panel discusses how food insecurity drives harmful impacts on the health and well-being of older adults, exacerbating many chronic conditions. Important questions are answered, including how leaders can advocate for funding that would provide grants to states, territories, and tribes to help support the delivery of nutritious meals for older adults throughout the country. ••••• ••••• ••••• Moderator: Maura LaGue, Managing Director, Women In Government Foundation, Inc. Featured Guest: Bob Blancato, Executive Director, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), and the National Coordinator of the Defeat Malnutrition Today coalition. ••••• ••••• ••••• For more information, visit www.womeningovernment.org Audio courtesy of OSUCHLUCK Productions, www.osuchluck.com