Learn how malnutrition and food insecurity impacts older Virginians. View our five-part "microlearning" video series (10 minutes total) to learn about nutrition and education programs and services available in Virginia designed to improve malnutrition and reduce food insecurity. 

After you complete the course, complete the evaluation HERE: https://forms.office.com/g/DcmjvgW57P

Part 1 – Malnutrition and Food Insecurity  

This video introduces the concepts of “malnutrition” and “food insecurity.” It describes how these factors impact older adult health and what you can do to identify and prevent malnutrition and food insecurity.  A PDF of the Determine Your Nutritional Health checklist, recommended by the Nutritional Screening Initiative as a screening tool, can be found here. The Nutrition and Aging Resource Center offers a wealth of information on how to understand and address malnutrition and food insecurity.  

Part 2 – Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals  

This video takes a look at Virginia’s network of Area Agencies on Aging (or AAAs) and the congregate and home delivered meals programs that they offer to their communities. It shares information on the benefits of congregate or group meal sites as well as home delivered meals. Visit these links to learn more about services offered by local AAAs including congregate meals, home-delivered meals, nutrition counseling, and nutrition education. To identify the local AAA that serves a specific city or county click here.  

Part 3 – SNAP and Food Bank  

This video reviews how the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (or SNAP) can help low-income older adults purchase groceries. It shares how Virginia has made it easier for older adults to apply for and receive SNAP benefits. It also highlights how local food pantries can serve as a great resource for older adults to obtain free food and groceries. To learn more about SNAP visit this webpage. For assistance applying for SNAP, individuals can call or visit their local Department of Social Services. SNAP can also be applied for online using CommonHelp. Connect with a regional food bank for assistance finding local food pantries. Some food pantries offer food box programs for older adults.  

Part 4 – Farm Market Fresh and Virginia Fresh Match  

This video touches on the importance of fresh fruits and vegetables for nutritional health. It provides an overview of the Farm Market Fresh and Virginia Fresh Match programs, which can help low-income older adults purchase fresh produce from their local farmers’ markets. Additional information about Farm Market Fresh and Virginia Fresh Match can be found on their webpages. Older adults can apply for Farm Market Fresh by contacting a local AAA. Markets participating in Farm Market Fresh, SNAP, and Virginia Fresh Match can be found on this map. Use the filters below the map to click "Programs" and select the applicable program.   

Part 5 – Self-Management Programs (CDSME, etc.)  

This video reviews how chronic health conditions are connected to an older adult’s nutritional health. It examines the benefits of Chronic Disease-Self Management Education (CDSME) and other evidence-based programs. Older adults can contact a local AAA to see what Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Programs are available to them. Examples of programs offered in areas of Virginia include the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, Diabetes Self-Mangement Program, and Bingocize.   

This training resource was developed through the collaborative efforts of the Commonwealth Council on Aging, the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and BES Studios. Development was supported in part by the Geriatric Training and Education initiative of the Virginia General Assembly.