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Food safety and security
Proper nutrition is important for older adults wishing to fuel a healthy, active lifestyle. In order to achieve this, older adults need access to the right kind of foods in their communities, and need to be confident it is safe for them. Read more about these issues as well as the related issues of nutritional awareness and education, food aid, food standards, and more in our resources below.
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Panic buying during health crises is influenced by perception of the threat and scarcity of products, a fear of the unknown, and a desire to maintain control
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2020) -
Covid-19: Finding Affordable Food
National Council on Aging (US)The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many people to lose their food security and has left them wondering where their next meal is coming from. This resource describes several programs across America such as Meals on Wheels and Feeding America Food Banks that help seniors maintain their physical health by accessing nutritional food. -
Food Safety
National Institute on AgingAs a senior, it is very important to be aware of the many dangers of unsafe food. Use this resource to learn how to safely handle food while cooking, washing and eating vegetables and meat. -
10 Tips for Eating Healthy on a Budget
National Institute on AgingIf you are a senior who is struggling to make a food budget and maintain a healthy diet, use this resource to learn about tools that can help you. Consider using coupons, making lists, buying in bulk or even meal delivery options. -
Why Are Older Adults at Risk for Food Insecurity? Raising Awareness on World Food Day
Institute on AgingMany older adults face food insecurity and daily hunger. Read this resource to learn about why older adults are going hungry and what can be done to fight this issue. -
Changing population age structures and sustainable development
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsPopulation growth and development affect each other. The UN's Commission on Population and Development helps take on the challenges of population growth. Watch this video to learn more about what this UN Commission does. -
8 ways to thrive in old age
Fraser HealthThere are many ways to stay healthy during old age and this resource describes 8 ways you can start making changes in your life. Some of these include exercising, eating a balanced diet, learning a new language, volunteering, staying social and getting in touch with your spiritual side. -
Nutrition needs when you’re over 65
Better Health ChannelAs you age, your dietary needs also change and by making simple changes in your diet, you can ensure you are living a healthy lifestyle. This resource uses the Australian dietary guidelines to give suggestions on how to alter your diet and also provides advice on how to make quick meals and snacks. -
Seniors and Nutrition: Why Eating Together is Better
American Senior CommunitiesAs you age your dietary needs will change and you will most likely find yourself eating less. Eating with family or friends can promote healthy eating habits and encourage better food choices. -
Healthy Eating and Regular Physical Activity: A Winning Combination for Older Adults
Active Aging CanadaUse this resource as a guide for healthy aging and learn how combining healthy eating and physical activity can slow down the progress of certain conditions and reduce your risk of falls. Tips on healthy eating and examples of exercises are provided for your convenience. -
Your Personal Passport to Healthy Living
Active Aging CanadaUse this resource for more information on physical activity as a senior, healthy eating, mental health and beliefs & attitudes. First, learn about each topic and then fill in the blanks at the end of the resource to personalize your own personal passport for healthy living. -
Are You Eating Your ABCs?
Aging CareSeniors often do not receive adequate amounts of key vitamins in their diet. Use this resource to learn about vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K and how you can easily implement them into your life. -
10 Tips for a Healthy Diet After Age 50
Aging CareIf you are over the age of 50 and are thinking of ways to stay healthy during your retirement, use this resource to learn about small changes that will make a big difference. Tips include taking supplements, increasing fibre in the diet, maintaining a healthy weight and eliminating unnecessary sugars and salt. -
Nutrient Supplements and Senior Health
Aging CareIf you are using multivitamins, consider reading this resource to learn about the possible advantages if you are a senior with nutritional deficiencies. Learn about the possible downfalls of multivitamins as well and make an informed decision. -
Healthy Eating for Seniors Handbook
British Columbia Family & Social SupportsUse this handbook as a guide for healthy eating as a senior and learn how you can find balance in your life. Topics covered include supplements, diets for chronic conditions, recipes and many more. -
Healthy Eating for Seniors Audiobook
British Columbia Family & Social SupportsListen to this audiobook as a guide for healthy eating as a senior and learn how you can find balance in your life. Topics covered include supplements, diets for chronic conditions, recipes and many more. -
What's on Your Plate
National Institute on AgingUse this resource to learn about lifestyle changes you can implement into your life for healthy aging. Making wise food choices according to your dietary needs, food shopping and safety tips and identifying roadblocks to healthy eating are discussed in this guide. -
Calorie Restriction and Fasting Diets: What Do We Know?
National Institute on AgingUse this resource to understand the difference between dieting, calorie restriction and fasting dieting. Evidence from human and animal studies are provided for fasting diets and calorie restriction, however the science is uncertain due to the limited generalizability to the whole population. -
What Do We Know About Healthy Aging?
National Institute on AgingHealthy aging can be achieved many ways and learning how to implement simple changes in your life can be beneficial as a senior. Exercising more often, paying attention to your weight, eating healthy foods rich in micronutrients and engaging with others while enjoying your favourite hobby are all great ways to improve your quality of life during retirement. -
Age Page: Dietary Supplements
National Institute on AgingIf you are a senior or you suspect that a senior is not getting enough nutrients in their diet, use this resource to learn about dietary supplements, vitamins, antioxidants and herbal supplements. -
AgePage: Healthy Eating After 50
National Institute on AgingWith age, eating can become difficult for some and getting enough nutrients from food can become problematic. Use this resource to learn about what nutrients and vitamins you should be getting from your food and tips on how to achieve these nutritional goals. -
Food Recalls
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationProtect yourself and your family by being aware of recent public advisories for food recalls. This website maintains an up-to-date list of food recalls, issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). -
There is limited evidence on the most cost-effective home-delivered meals programs for older adults
Journal of Nutrition in Gerontology and Geriatrics (2015) -
Private seniors’ residences
Government of QuébecA private senior's residence is a facility that is designed for people over 65 years old. These facilities offer services such as nursing care, meal services, housekeeping services and reacreational services. Each of these facilities must comply with certain rules to ensure the health and safety of its residents. Read this resource to learn more. -
Programs and Services for Seniors
Government of QuébecThis guide contains information on government programs and services available to seniors in Québec. This guide contains links to resources related to health and social services, home help, housing, transportation, justice and tax credits. Read this resource to learn more. -
Preventing deconditioning in seniors during the pandemic
Government of QuébecDeconditioning is a group of physical, mental and social consequences associated with inactivity or understimulation. 3 areas to focus on to prevent deconditioning are mobility, nutrition and hydration, and mental and cognitive health. Read this resource for more tips and resources on how to prevent deconditioning. -
Maintaining a Health Weight
National Institute on AgingIf you continue to eat the same types and amounts of food as you age but do not become more active, you will probably gain weight. This resource contains tips on nutrtion and excercise in order to maintain a healthy weight. By keeping healthy, you will better be able to participate in daily activities and maintain your independece. -
Colon Cancer and Palliative Care
Get Palliative CarePalliative care helps to manage symptoms related to colon cancer, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Diet, nutrition, fluids and electrolytes might be used by a palliative care team to control symptoms and prevent further complications. Read this resource to learn more. -
Doing your shopping – coronavirus advice
Age UKKnowing when and how to shop is important during the Covid-19 pandemic. Everyone should generally limit the number of shopping excursions they make. Many stores in the UK have special hours for older adults and there are also community supports you can reach out to for help. Relying on your friends and family is also an option. -
Tips for Meal Kit and Food Delivery Safety
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)While there is currently no evidence that Covid-19 is spread through food, meal kits and food delivery should still follow food safety guidelines. There are steps you can take before ordering your groceries and while receiving and handling delivered food. Read this resource to learn more. -
Caring for Seniors in Your Community
The Ontario Caregiver OrganizationDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, almost everyone has become a caregiver for someone else. Read this resource for tips on how you can support a senior who is in isolation while still following Public Health guidelines. -
Eat hearty – and safely – this summer
Senior PlanetHelp protect against food poisoning this summer. Learn how to clean, separate, cook, and chill your food. Read this resource to learn more. -
Rural Aging
Rural Health Information HubOlder adults who live in rural communities face unique challenges. They struggle with transportation, housing, and health care accessibility issues. In the United States, there are some supports available for these older adults. Read this resource to learn more. -
Overcoming Roadblocks to Healthy Eating
National Institute on AgingEating a healthy diet can be difficult as there are many roadblocks to overcome as seniors. Some may include, eating alone, lack of appetite, drug interactions, difficulty chewing and many more. Read this resource to learn how to overcome these difficulties. -
Food Safety: Easy Ways to Make Food Safer
Health Link B.C.It is very important to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses as a senior. Use this factsheet to learn about ways you can reduce your risk of such illnesses while still maintaining a healthy diet. -
Protecting Your Loved Ones from Food Illnesses This Holiday: 5 Dangerous Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
National Council on Aging (US)Seniors are more at risk for developing foodborne illnesses, especially during the holidays. Read this resource to learn about how you can protect yourself and your loved ones during the holiday season. -
Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors
National Council on Aging (US)Healthy eating can be hard for seniors when they don’t know how to effectively do their grocery shopping. This resource contains many educational videos to learn about safe and healthy grocery shopping and cooking. -
Choosing Healthy Meals As You Get Older
National Institute on AgingMaintaining a healthy diet while aging is essential to living a healthy life. One tip is to make eating a social event to encourage regular meals. Read this resource for more tips. -
Food Safety 101 for Older Adults
National Council on Aging (US)Food safety means following proper precautions to prevent foodborne illnesses. You can use this resource to learn about food safety even during extreme weather events and power outages. Read this resource to learn more. -
Shopping for Food That's Good for You
National Institute on AgingIf you are a senior who struggles with maintaining a healthy diet, try making a grocery list with foods that you eat on a regular basis. Making a list will make grocery shopping easier and faster. Read this resource to learn more. -
People at Risk: Older Adults
FoodSafety.govOlder adults are more at risk of foodborne illnesses. If you prepare food, you need to take some steps to protect against foodborne illnesses. Read this resource to learn more. -
Safe Food Handling for adults ages 60 and over
Health CanadaFood poisoning can happen to anyone but older adults are at greater risk. Learn about the safe storage and preparation of food. This resource also helps you learn how to handle specific types of food like fish and vegetables. -
Guide for Older Adults on Using the Nutrition Facts Label
U.S Food and Drug AdministrationNutrition facts labels tell you what is in the food you are eating. You can make better choices about your nutrition when you knowing how to read a nutrition fact label. Read this resource to learn more. -
Collective Kitchen Manual
Alberta Health ServicesA collective kitchen is when a group of people cook food together. Participants can decide what their own collective kitchen looks like. Read this resource to learn everything you need to know about how to start your own collective kitchen. -
The Ultimate Senior Safety and Well-Being Checklist
A Place For MomThis holiday season, use the seniors wellbeing checklist to make sure your older adult loved one is healthy and safe in their home. Some topics include house safety and health status. Read this resource to learn more. -
Healthy eating for seniors
Government of Canada - Living in CanadaEating with others is an important part of healthy eating. You can join a lunch group or eat with your neighbours. Read this resource to learn more about how you can socialize during meals. -
Cooking for Seniors in Their Home: The Benefits of Hiring A Pro
Institute on AgingOlder adults and their caregivers may struggle with cooking. Hiring a professional chef can be one way to help overcome poor nutrition. Read this resource to learn more. -
Easy Budget-Friendly Meals
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) HealthRead this resource to learn about the obstacles that seniors face when trying to eat healthy meals and stay engaged in the cooking process. Lack of food security due to increasing produce prices and the loss of motivation to cook for one person can lead to serious health problems in seniors. -
Personal Chefs Can Help Seniors at Home
Aging CareA personal chef can be a way to make sure you have nutritious meals as you age but they can also be a form of companionship. Read this resource to learn about a program that connects older adults with personal chefs called Chefs for Seniors. -
Why Seniors Refuse to Eat and What You Can Do About It
Aging CareIf you are a caregiver for a senior and they are refusing to eat, there are many possible reasons for this behaviour. This may be due to a loss of taste and smell, side effects from medications, loss of motivation to cook or loneliness from eating alone. -
Eat meals with others
Government of Canada - Living in CanadaCanada’s updated 2019 food guide highlights the importance and benefits of eating with others, especially as a senior. Use this resource to learn how you can plan to eat with others more often and make every meal an opportunity for social interaction. -
Eating Well as You Age
Help GuideEating well is about more than the food you eat. Eating with others has its own benefits. Read this resource to learn more about how you can make cooking and eating into a social experience. -
Kitchen Kings
Age UKJoining a cooking class can be a great way for older men to build their independence and make new friends. Learn about how the Kitchen Kings program run by Age UK, has helped older men find social support by learning how to cook. -
Tasty Meals When Cooking for One
Unlock FoodIf you are not used to cooking for yourself and you are not sure how to cook for one person, use this resource for exciting new recipes that are already prepared for you. If eating alone is making you feel isolated and lonely, read the tips in this resource for guidance. -
A guide to healthy eating for older adults
Unlock FoodSeniors who live alone may experience loss of appetite and lose interest in food which can lead to health problems. This guide is packed with tips to ensure that you are eating healthy meals and eating regularly as you age. -
10 Tips for Planning Meals on a Budget
Unlock FoodIf you are a senior who is new to grocery shopping on your own or you are looking to save money on your groceries, use this resource for expert tips on shopping on a budget. -
Planning Wisely when Cooking for One
Unlock FoodIf you are new to cooking for yourself and do not know where to start, this resource can be used as a guide for planning your meals. It outlines planning meals for one person, budget considerations and nutritional values. -
Leave no one behind toolkit
BondSustainable development should help lift everyone - no matter their social status or age. The "Leave No One Behind" commitment promises to make sure this comes true. Learn more about what steps are being taken around the world so no one is left behind. -
Do you know all 17 SDGs?
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Watch this short video to learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their impact. -
The United Nations Sustainable Development Summit: 17 Goals to Transform Our World
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change. They were agreed upon by 193 countries. Learn more about the ways in which these goals hope to build a sustainable future. -
The lazy person's guide to saving the world
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals can be achieved with the help of everyday people! Here are some things that you can do from your couch, your home, your neighbourhood, and workplace, to make the world a better place! -
Healthy eating for women in their later years
Better Health ChannelMalnutrition and decreased appetite are common for older women to experience as their dietary needs change over time. Topics such as weight management, healthy eating for common health conditions and tips for improving appetite are covered in this resource for your convenience. -
Secrets to healthy ageing
Better Health ChannelIf you are a senior who is looking to make lifestyle changes to improve your health, use this resource for tips on how to get started. Healthy aging consists of getting active, eating a balanced diet, keeping you brain engaged by learning something new, modifying your home and staying social to name a few. -
Healthy Lifestyle for Healthy Older Adults
Eat Right OntarioIn order to live a healthy life in old age, it is important to have an active lifestyle which includes physical activity and a healthy diet. Use this resource to learn how to increase nutrient density without increasing calorie intake and how to integrate more protein into your diet. -
Special Nutrient Needs of Older Adults
Eat Right OntarioCalcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, fibre and potassium needs changes in old age. Use this resource to ensure you are getting enough nutrients in your diet. -
Nine Ways to Get Someone to Eat
Today's CaregiverCertain health conditions cause a dramatic decrease in appetite, especially in old age. Use this resource for tips on how to get your loved one to eat more regularly and obtain the most calories and nutrients from their meals. -
Nutrition for Older Men
Eat Right OntarioMaintaining a healthy diet during old age is important in order to ensure that you are getting enough nutrients in your body. Learn about the specific nutritional and caloric needs that older men have and how to meet these needs. -
Healthy Eating for Healthy Aging
Newfoundland and Labrador Children, Seniors and Social DevelopmentHealthy eating is especially important for seniors in order to maintain good health and independence. Use this resource for advice on how eat a balanced yet diverse diet and learn easy recipes that you can enjoy with loved ones. -
The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Seniors
American Senior CommunitiesAs you age your dietary needs will change and you will most likely find yourself eating less. However it is important to ensure you are still getting proper nutrition and this resource can help you by providing healthy eating habits that can be incorporated into your daily life. -
Nutrition for Elders
Vitality MagazineSpecial attention should be paid to senior’s diets as they are more at risk for certain conditions. This resource outlines conditions such as dehydration, joint pain, osteoporosis, constipation and memory loss and provides nutritional guidelines to help manage each condition. -
At-Home Exercise: Turn Housework Into a Workout
Aging CareSome seniors cannot make it to the gym but they can still be active in their own home by turning housework into a workout. Some simple ways to incorporate physical activity in your life can be stretching and lifting when cleaning, using your stairs as an alternative to cardio and working your arm muscles while folding, -
Healthy and active ageing
Better Health ChannelHealthy and active aging includes not only physical activity and eating, but also socializing with others and feeling a sense of community where you live. Tips on types of exercise and healthy food options are given to help you implement this lifestyle change. -
As You Age... A Guide to Aging, Medicines, and Alcohol
U.S Food and Drug AdministrationAs a senior, managing medications can become stressful and overwhelming due to the number of different medications that are prescribed for various conditions. In addition, mixing these drugs with alcohol can result in serious side effects. This guide offers tips for safe medication management and alcohol misuse. -
A Table for One: Hidden Dangers of Eating Alone
A Place For MomLearn about the importance of eating meals with other people and how loneliness can hinder your appetite. If you suspect that a senior is not eating enough, use this resource to learn tips on encouraging them to maintain a healthy and stable diet. Tips include, checking their refrigerator, asking them about their appetite, signing up for meal delivery services and more. -
7 Simple Ways to Put Fruits and Veggies Back Into a Senior’s Diet
Aging CareEating a healthy diet can be hard as a senior especially if you are living alone. Use this resource as a guide to get started in the process of altering your lifestyle by making small and easy changes to your everyday diet. -
Get More Energy by Eating Smart
Aging CareOverworked caregivers are usually so busy that they forget to take care of themselves and suffer from fatigue. By maintaining a good diet, not skipping breakfast and drinking plenty of water, caregivers can ensure that they are fit to take care of others. -
Low Cholesterol Diet: How to Cut Out the Fat
Aging CareIf you are a senior who is also experiencing obesity, consider using this resource to learn ways you can change your diet to cut out unnecessary fat. Use this resource to also learn about the different types of fat as well as examples of each. -
A Heart Healthy Diet
Aging CareConsider changing your everyday diet to integrate more fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates and oily fish in order to keep your heart healthy. Making these small changes now will lead to long-term health benefits. -
Healthy Eating
British Columbia Family & Social SupportsIf you are a senior and need help with maintaining a healthy diet, use this resource to guide you in the process. Additional tips and resources from other websites are provided for your benefit. -
Recipes
British Columbia Family & Social SupportsSeniors may have a difficult time when trying to prepare meals due to various reasons. If you are looking for healthy ethnic recipes to try, use this resource for inspiration. -
You Gave, Now Save Guide to Benefits
National Council on Aging (US)Use this guide as a general guide for seniors and learn about housing assistance, transportation, food assistance, health and prescription information and many other subjects related to senior wellbeing. Links to other websites are also provided. -
The Safe Living Guide
Public Health Agency of Canada (aging & seniors)This resource shares risk of injury related to aging and describes ways to prevent falls such as modifying your home, using safety aids, monitoring medication and remaining healthy. -
Bruno and Alice—A love story in twelve parts about seniors and safety
Public Health Agency of Canada (aging & seniors)Learn about simple steps seniors can take to prevent injuries by making their home safer and watching out for risks. Resource shares a story to demonstrate common risks and adjustments. -
Is your home healthy?
Health CanadaImprove safe living for seniors by lowering risk factors such as household chemicals, temperature and food products. This resource shares sources with more information. -
Thinking about aging in place
Health CanadaPlan to live in your community by making changes to your home. Consider moving to a community with social support, services, transport and other aging-related needs. -
Seniors and Aging - Preventing Falls in and around your home
Health CanadaThis resource shares medical, and environmental factors that can increase the risk of falling and describes how to minimize these risks through all parts of the home. Contact Public Health Canada for more information. -
Preventing Falls in Older Adults
Active Aging CanadaLearn about risks and consequences of falling, and practical ways to adapt to your environment. -
Moving to Canada: Get your favourite food here!
Canadian ImmigrantFinding your favourite cultural food can be challenging. This resource is a list of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan restaurants in 6 cities across Canada. -
Moving to Canada: Get your groceries here!
Canadian ImmigrantFinding cultural grocery stores can be difficult. This resource is a list of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan grocery stores in 6 cities across Canada. -
Safe internal cooking temperatures
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationYou need to cook different meats to different internal temperatures before they are safe to eat. Access this resource for a chart of what the safe internal cooking temperatures are for common household meats. -
Defrosting meat - Food safety is in your hands!
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationTo defrost safely, do it in the fridge, or if you are in a rush, in a sink filled with cold water. You can also defrost meat in a microwave. Always wash your hands after handling raw meat. -
Frozen chicken - Food safety is in your hands!
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationMany frozen chick products are raw, so make sure to follow the cooking instructions closely. Usually, you will need to bake the food in an oven, instead of micro-waving it. Always wash your hands after handling frozen chicken products. -
Fruit snack - Food safety is in your hands!
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationAlways wash your fruit – even the parts you won’t be eating – to prevent contamination and getting sick. Scrub your fruits with a produce brush and wash them under fresh, running water. -
Chicken dinner prep - Food safety is in your hands!
Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety EducationWhen preparing a meal with raw meat, always wash your hands after handling the meat. Also use separate knives and cutting boards – one for raw meat, and another for everything else. -
Policies from various sectors and at different levels are required to address food insecurity among older adults
Global Food Security (2017) -
Putting an end to food waste: for your wallet and our planet
About one third of the food produced in the world is wasted each year. What can explain food waste and what can we do to prevent it? -
Beyond the 'sniff' test : 6 tips to help improve your food safety knowledge and practices
Food safety relates to the handling, preparation, and storage of food in ways that prevent foodborne illness. Food safety can begin at home with these 6 easy tips. -
There can’t be too many cooks: Kitchen collectives to feed your needs
Most Canadians eat out once a week or more, because it is more convenient, they don't have time, don't like to, or don't know how to cook. Some initiatives, such as collective kitchens, have been launched here and abroad to meet the nutritional, economical and social needs of people in the community.
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