The Evolving Needs of Aging Americans: Meals on Wheels Panel Discussion

Lance Robertson, former Assistant Secretary for Aging, participated in a virtual Meals on Wheels panel discussion with the Administration for Community Living’s Acting Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Aging (ASA), Alison Barkoff, as well as former ASAs Kathy J. Greenlee (2009 – 2016) and Josefina G. Carbonell (2001 – 2009).

They discussed meeting the diverse and changing needs of older adults in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and for years to come, including the senior nutrition network’s pandemic response; the role Meals on Wheels plays in healthcare and addressing social determinants of health; and the network’s commitment to comprehensive person-centered service that goes well beyond just the meal. They also talked about the impact of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program as it nears its 50th anniversary next year.