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About Senior Hunger

 

Department of Senior Affairs

About Senior Hunger

Senior Food Insecurity

New Mexico

  • New Mexico seniors are 2nd in the nation in food insecurity.
  • New Mexico has the 2nd worst rates of poverty in the country.
  • 13% of people who seek food assistance are senior citizens.

Nationally

  • 1.2 million Seniors living alone experience food insecurity.
  • 5.4 million Americans over the age of 60 are food insecure.
  • 3.0 million households with Seniors age 65 and older experience food insecurity.

Those living in states in the south and southwest, those who are racial or ethnic minorities, those with lower incomes, and those who are younger (ages 60-69) are most likely to be food insecure.

The number of food insecure seniors is projected to increase by 50% when the youngest of the Baby Boom Generation reaches age 60 in 2025.

Food insecure seniors are at increased risk for chronic health conditions:

  • 60% likely to have depression
  • 55% more likely to have diabetes
  • 53% more likely to report a heart attack
  • 52% more likely to develop asthma