Report: Majority of Older Americans Not Participating in Key Federal Food Assistance Program

The latest report from the National Council on Aging and the Urban Institute reveals a startling statistic: nearly three-quarters of older Americans who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are not taking advantage of this crucial federal food assistance program. This means that approximately 9 million eligible individuals are missing out on much-needed aid to help them afford groceries in today’s challenging economic climate.

The implications of this low participation rate are significant, especially as food prices continue to rise. SNAP can provide vital support to low-income seniors, but many are unaware of the program or face barriers to enrollment. The disparities in participation rates between states highlight the need for increased education and outreach efforts to ensure that all eligible individuals are able to access the assistance they need.

In addition to SNAP, the report also highlights low enrollment rates in other key programs for older Americans, such as Supplemental Security Income and Medicare Savings Programs. These findings underscore the importance of raising awareness about available benefits and providing support to help eligible individuals navigate the enrollment process.

As NCOA President and CEO Ramsey Alwin emphasizes, it is crucial that we address the barriers preventing older Americans from accessing these vital resources. By increasing education and assistance efforts, we can help ensure that all eligible individuals are able to access the support they need to afford basic necessities like food and healthcare.