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More than one quarter of adults 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated, according to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face factors such as living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness and hearing loss.
What’s lesser known is the impact of social isolation on nutrition. Many older people who live alone are at risk for malnutrition because, not surprisingly, there is less incentive to prepare a nutritious meal.
This problem may be especially acute in women, says Chris Rosenbloom, Ph.D., associate professor of nutrition at Georgia State University in Atlanta. She conducted a study on the effect of widowhood on nutrition. “Women in particular, as caregivers, don’t see the value in taking care of themselves,” she says. “In my study, a lot of [widowed] women didn’t prepare meals. They’d grab whatever is available.”
Not only does eating with others improve physical health, but it can also improve well-being and lead to stronger relationships. Coming together over a meal can lead to rich discussion over shared beliefs and cultural interests. Here are some ideas to try:
• Join (or form) a lunch or supper club with neighbors. One individual can provide the main course, while others bring appetizers and side dishes to share meal prep.
• Visit a congregate meal site like a VPAS Cafe. Participants enjoy a nutritious lunch at no cost, as well as socialization, light exercise, and games or educational programming.
• Have a simple lunch with a younger relative for some intergenerational bonding.
• Hire a meal companion. Caregivers can help shop for groceries, prepare the meal, and provide companionship during mealtime.
• Use tech. If loved ones live far away, eat together over Zoom, FaceTime or other videoconferencing platforms.
• Attend church potlucks or special food fundraisers to connect with the community.
No matter how one chooses to dine with others, doing so can boost a person’s nutrition, wellness and social connections, leading to a longer, more independent life.
There is no cost to participate in VPAS Cafes, but reservations for lunch are required. To make a reservation, call Laynee Knick at (540) 261-7474.
Leigh-Anne Lees is the VPAS director of community engagement
