Keywords

elderly, exercise programs, food assistance, government, nutrition programs

 

Authors

  1. Wunderlich, Shahla M. PhD, RD, FACN
  2. McKinnon, Charlotte F. MA

Abstract

The number of older adults in the United States is on the rise making government-sponsored nutrition programs more important than ever. In light of this, the government food assistance programs for the elderly should be evaluated and enhanced to ensure that these programs are as effective as possible. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans not only recommend adequate nutrient intake but also promote physical activity. This article, therefore, examines the health impact of the integration of an exercise program into the preexisting government-sponsored nutrition education programs and discusses the benefits and limitations of some of the current food assistance programs.