The prevalence and distribution of food insecurity among older georgians receiving aging services

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence and distribution of food insecurity among older Georgians receiving aging services across the state, by county, by Program Service Area (PSA), and by residence type. This study used data assessed and derived from the Georgia Aging Information Management Systems (n=48,649, mean age 74.3 ± 11.9 years, 69.7% female, 51.1% white). Food insecurity was assessed using the 6-item Household Food Security Survey Module. Approximately 29% of participants were food insecure, and there was a substantial variation in the prevalence of food insecurity across the state. Northwest Georgia (42.7%) and the Georgia Mountains (38.9%) PSAs showed the highest food insecurity prevalence. Proportions of participants who were living in food deserts were highest in the Southwest Georgia (34.9%) and Southern Crescent (34.6%) PSAs. Understanding the distribution of food insecurity in vulnerable older Georgians could help to better meet their critical needs for food and aging programs and services.