Seven Ways Low-Income Older Adults Struggle with Food Pantries

• In Event: Aging and the Life Course Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): 12: Structural Barriers and Vulnerability among Older Adults

Abstract

As the percentages and numbers of older adults in the US who are food insecure increase, so does reliance on food pantries. Nearly 17% of Americans obtained food from a food pantry in 2024, up 38% from 202. In the US, older adults who are Black and Hispanic, living alone, lower income, disabled, or less educated are more likely to be food insecure and to use food pantries. This paper uses life course and social ecological theories to understand the successes and challenges older adults face when using food pantries to address food insecurity. Between March 2021 and November 2021, we conducted 63 in-depth interviews with adults aged 60 and older whose incomes were less than 130% of the federal poverty line.i Many respondents commented favorably on their interactions with food pantries, however, respondents also described challenges, including poor health and mobility; lack of transportation; lack of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats; food that is about to expire; food that adversely affects health; administrative burden; and long waits to obtain food. Our findings highlight the need for healthier food options, and easier access to food for low-income older adults, and more convenient and affordable transportation.

Authors

• Madonna Harrington Meyer, Syracuse University

• Winston Junior Scott, Syracuse University