Nutrition

Nutrition


The nutrition program is a core program of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas. The Area Agency on Aging subcontracts with several providers to provide nutritious meals to older individuals (60 and over) through congregate meal sites and/or home-delivered meals. This program is a key contributor to the health and well-being of older individuals within our fourteen-county region.


Social relationships are necessary for the older population to stay connected and active. The congregate nutrition sites provide an opportunity for socializing through games and conversations while receiving hot, nutritious meals (which follow the established dietary guidelines) 5 days per week. The congregate meal program assists our seniors to engage in social and healthy activities which contribute to their overall health and well-being, particularly those individuals residing in rural areas.


Home Delivered Meals are provided to individuals age 60 or older who are homebound due to illness or disability, are unable to travel to a congregate meals site, and/or cannot prepare meals for themselves. The nutritious meals provided are hot, frozen, or supplemental (with a satisfactory storage life), which follow the established dietary guidelines. All participants are provided nutrition education which is approved by a licensed dietitian.   


Our goal is to reduce the social isolation of those who are homebound or in rural areas. We also strive to promote better health through proper nutrition. Most individuals in the program receive hot meals five days a week. Meals are delivered by staff or volunteers who provide wellness checks and some socialization for individuals receiving services.


We contract with the Meals on Wheels East Texas to serve six counties (Gregg, Henderson, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood), Tri-County Meals on Wheels for three counties (Anderson, Cherokee, and Rusk), and the AAA serves as a direct provider for six counties (Camp, Harrison, Marion, Panola, Rains, & Wood congregate site). 

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