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AARP Foundation helped more than 1 million older adults living with low income secure more than $1 billion in income, benefits and refunds. Learn more

You have the power to change the lives of seniors in poverty.

1 in 3 older adults struggle to meet their basic needs. Your gift can help seniors secure good jobs, get the benefits they've earned, and stay connected to their communities.

Increasing Older Adult Access to SNAP (overview): According to the AARP Public Policy Institute, just 29% of adults over age 60 who are eligible for SNAP participate in the program. AARP

Foundation collaborated with Social Policy Research Associates to learn more.

This brief highlights the complex journey that older adults experience when applying for and enrolling in SNAP, including major barriers along the way and solutions that improve access.

Older adults experiencing food insecurity often combine SNAP with multiple nutrition programs to better meet their food and nutrition needs.

Many older adults with low income have trouble gaining access to benefits online. Low digital literacy, lack of broadband internet, and an increasingly virtual application process are the

biggest obstacles.

Social isolation often keeps older adults with low income from learning about and applying for SNAP.

Research Reports

Nearly 200 older adults with low income were interviewed about their experiences with SNAP.

An AARP Foundation survey of older adult SNAP participants reveals the dramatic impact on both food security.

Older adults experience a number of barriers to SNAP access, but state waivers and program changes may be the answer.

Food Security Research

Results from a study of older adults who received SNAP through an ESAP application underscore the benefits.

This report highlights the circumstances of adults over 50 who receive charitable food assistance through the Feeding America network of food banks.

Despite the pandemic's challenges, congregate meal programs found ways not just to continue but, in many cases, to grow their services.

Nutrition Security Research

Nutrition is crucial for healthy aging and can prevent, slow the progression of, and even treat some conditions.

This study explores how older adults with low income think about their nutrition and health, and what motivates them to take action and make changes.

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