Our Senior Neighbors Are at Risk of Hunger and Isolation
Get The Facts
Facts and Research
At Meals on Wheels America, we engage in research to demonstrate both the senior population’s evolving needs and Meals on Wheels providers’ impact. This work supports our commitment to ensuring that local providers have the tools and resources they need to meet the growing demand for services in their communities.
Meals on Wheels:
A Trusted and Proven Solution
92% of Meals on Wheels providers support clients with social connection opportunities beyond the meals
91% of home-delivered meal participants say Meals on Wheels helps them live independently
The Case for Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is an evidence-supported, cost-effective solution to senior hunger and isolation. The research consistently demonstrates Meals on Wheels’ efficacy in reducing health care utilization, preventing nursing home admissions and generating substantial health care cost savings. By fostering social connections, providing safety checks and delivering nutritious meals, Meals on Wheels supports older adults so they can maintain their health, independence and ability to age in their own homes and communities.
But It's Not Enough
Meals on Wheels providers are uniquely positioned to support vulnerable seniors, but the need is rapidly growing, and our network can’t keep up. This lack of support has led to dire consequences for older adults’ health and well-being, and we can’t wait any longer.
1% of philanthropic donations across the country go to aging causes
97% of local providers believe there are seniors in their community who need meals whom they are not currently serving
1 in 3 local Meals on Wheels providers has a waitlist
4 Months is the average wait time
64% of Meals on Wheels providers believe they could serve more seniors with more funding
Help Us End The Wait™
Your gift will help support the local providers that bring social connection and nutritious meals to seniors nationwide.
