Food Security & Older Adults

On Thursday, November 14, we presented findings from our new research brief which aims to uncover how different aging adult groups, and their caregivers, navigate the Central Indiana food system. By shifting the focus from a deficit-oriented perspective on “food insecurity” to one emphasizing resilience and growth, this brief aims to uncover how individuals creatively manage food insecurity within their local communities and the role of support systems in this process. Focusing specifically on the lived experiences of aging adults in Central Indiana, the analysis assesses why certain food programs are utilized or avoided, how individuals adapt when facing food shortages, and the impact of their support networks. Ultimately, the research brief seeks to identify possible changes to enhance the effectiveness of food systems and support structures to better serve aging adults in Central Indiana and their overall well-being.

Keesha Dixon, Central Indiana Senior Fund Board President and CEO, K. Dixon & Associates, provided an overview of the Central Indiana Senior Fund and the Central Indiana State of Aging Report.

Unai Miguel Andres, Community-Engaged Sociomedical Researcher/Data Analyst, IU School of Medicine, Division of Children’s Health Services Research, presented highlights from research that he and co-author Rachel Seymour conducted.

Jill Sheridan, Policy Desk Editor, WFYI Public Media, moderated a panel discussion with Patrice Duckett-Brown, Executive Director, Fay Biccard Glick Center; Kate Howe, Executive Director, Indy Hunger Network; and Lisa Kirby, caregiver of an older adult.

Presented by The Central Indiana Senior Fund, a fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation, in partnership with The Polis Center and WFYI Public Media.