Publications by authors named "Marisa Shenk"
Objectives: This paper examines the health, work, and financial experiences of older adults with disabling conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also explores the role of county- and state-level conditions in these experiences.
Methods: Using data from the 2020 Health and Retirement Study, we estimated regression models to assess differences in outcomes between those with and without disabling conditions and by race/ethnicity.
Continued Participation in Congregate Meal Programs: The Role of Geographic Access to Food.
J Nutr Gerontol Geriatr
October 2021
Article Synopsis
- The Nutrition Services Program is the largest initiative providing prepared meals to older adults in need, but little is known about what keeps participants receiving these meals.
- A study analyzed data from 383 participants and found that 71.6% continued to receive meals for a year, with geographic access to food impacting meal continuation.
- Those with easier access to food were less likely to keep receiving meals, particularly individuals living alone, older adults, low-income individuals, and urban residents; understanding these factors is key for supporting older adults' food needs.
Background: In 2018, 14.3 million US households experienced food insecurity, which has been linked to negative health outcomes such as depression and anxiety, diabetes, and hypertension. This connection is particularly important for older adults, who are at greater risk than younger adults for developing certain health conditions.
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