Health and Nutrition
The purpose of nutrition services for Iowa’s older adults is to:
- Reduce hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition
- Promote socialization of older individuals
- Promote health and well-being with access to nutrition & health promotion/disease prevention services to delay onset of chronic diseases
Meal Services
Iowa has a meal program available for those age 60 or older, their spouses, and, in some cases, those younger than age 60 with disabilities. Individuals may voluntarily contribute towards the cost of the meal. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to inquire about locations and availability.
- Condition of Iowa's Congregate Meal Program (December 2018)
- HF 2463 Analysis of Meal Programs Coordinated by Iowa's Area Agencies on Aging (2014)
Nutrition Counseling
You can access 1-on-1 nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian to discuss specific dietary needs and concerns.
Nutrition Education Resources
Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury death among Iowans 65 or older. However, falls can be prevented and do not have to be a “normal” part of aging.
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to inquire about fall prevention programs like A Matter of Balance, Stepping On, Tai Chi for Arthritis, Walk with Ease, and CAPABLE.
The Iowa Café is a new, innovative partnership between local Area Agencies on Aging and licensed foodservices establishments like restaurants, food trucks, cafés, convenience stores, and grocery stores with hot and cold food options.
Participant Eligibility
To participate in The Iowa Café, individuals must be 60 years of age or older, or a spouse of an eligible individual regardless of age. Meals are provided on a voluntary contribution basis, and individuals will be given the opportunity to contribute towards the cost of the meal.
Fill out The Iowa Café Registration Form to register.
Call to Licensed Foodservices Establishments for Proposals
Foodservice Establishments interested in participating in The Iowa Café must fill out The Iowa Café Restaurant Interest Form. Someone from the Iowa Department on Aging will contact you and provide you with more information once submitted.
Current Iowa Café and Encore Café sites
- LifeLong Smiles Coalition—The Iowa Department on Aging is an active member of the coalition to assure optimal oral health for aging Iowans.
- ISmile Silver
The Iowa Department on Aging received a grant from the Administration for Community Living to pilot CAPABLE in Dallas, Cass, Mills, and Pottawattamie Counties. Connections Area Agency on Aging, Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, and Dallas County Hospital are key partners. CAPABLE is an evidence based program to help older adults "age in place". Participants receive services from an occupational therapist, a nurse, and a handyman to potentially decrease hospitalization and nursing home stays. Access the flyers below to contact the CAPABLE project in your county:
Connect with your local AAA for more information.