By the Numbers: Aging Population by State Fact Sheets

The number of older Americans is growing. This demographic shift brings with it a range of complex challenges, including rising food insecurity, social isolation and a greater need for accessible health care and support services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the challenges seniors face in each state, Meals on Wheels America analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau as well as data about senior nutrition programs receiving federal funding through the Older Americans Act (OAA) and other data sources. Note: Except where noted otherwise, “seniors” and “older adults” refers to adults age 60 or over, the primary age group served by the OAA.

Key Findings

These customized State Fact Sheets explore demographic trends, health statistics and senior nutrition program services utilization rates in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The data presented illustrates the critical need for expanded senior nutrition programming in America:

• America’s population is steadily aging. Maine has the largest percentage of the population who are seniors, with adults age 60+ accounting for 30.8%¹ of the population.    
• Older adults across the country are navigating complex challenges that impact their health, well-being and quality of life.
  • Food Insecurity: In every state, a significant number of older adults don’t get enough to eat. In Texas, for example, 22.8% of seniors experience limited or uncertain access to adequate food.²
  • Loneliness: Social isolation is an ongoing concern for seniors, as loneliness has been linked to negative health outcomes. Adults age 65+ living in Mississippi are most at risk for social isolation.³
  • Poverty: Financial hardship is a pressing issue for older adults, particularly those relying on fixed incomes. In Florida, 47.1% of single seniors age 65+ struggle to afford necessities like food, housing and healthcare.⁴
  • Health Issues: Seniors across the country are experiencing significant health challenges. In most states, more than half of Medicare participants age 65+ have multiple chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.⁵
• Senior nutrition providers that receive funding through the OAA help address food insecurity among older adults across the country. 
  • These providers serve vulnerable populations, including people of color, those living below the poverty line and individuals in rural communities, through both home-delivered meals and congregate dining.
  • However, the need for senior nutrition services far exceeds funding.

Looking Ahead

Senior nutrition providers are more critical than ever. However, a significant gap remains between the growing demand for these services and the available resources.

Meals on Wheels America is advocating at the federal level to bridge this gap and reach more seniors. Key advocacy goals include:

1. Increase funding and support for senior nutrition providers.
2. Strengthen and secure nutrition access for older adults.
3. Advance Food as Medicine initiatives.

With adequate support, senior nutrition providers can help ensure that every older adult receives the support they need to live a healthy, independent life.