Thursday, July 02, 2026
With growing concerns around food insecurity, rising grocery costs, and declining SNAP benefits, it’s more important than ever to strengthen community partnerships to improve access to nutritious food. The recent 2026 National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP) Annual Conference in Chicago was the perfect opportunity for AgeGuide staff to learn more about nutrition services and advocacy opportunities.
Key Takeaways
This year’s conference reinforced that nutrition services are about much more than delivering meals, they are a vital component of whole-person health. Presenters emphasized that home-delivered meals and congregate dining programs are opportunities to reduce isolation, identify health concerns, and connect older adults with additional supports.
The conference explored strategies for creating more inclusive nutrition programs, particularly for LGBTQIA+ older adults, including collecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data when appropriate, fostering welcoming environments, and recognizing the important role of chosen family and social connections in supporting healthy aging.
Federal Advocacy Updates
National policy experts shared several federal advocacy issues that could significantly impact aging services, including:
- Continued advocacy for Older Americans Act (OAA) Reauthorization, which remains stalled despite bipartisan support and may advance later this year through broader healthcare legislation.
- Ongoing federal budget and appropriations discussions that will determine future investments in nutrition and aging programs.
- Emerging nutrition legislation, which includes Medicare expansion to cover Medical Nutrition Therapy. This strengthens nutrition education and interventions within healthcare settings.
- Transportation reauthorization proposals that could improve mobility, accessibility, and community infrastructure for older adults.
How You Can Take Action
Advocacy doesn’t end when the conference concludes. Everyone can play a role in strengthening aging services:
- Contact federal lawmakers to encourage passage of the Older Americans Act Reauthorization through our action alert.
- Urge Congress to protect and invest in Older Americans Act nutrition programs during the federal appropriations process.
- Share stories about how nutrition, transportation, and aging services improve the health and independence of older adults.
- Stay informed and respond to advocacy alerts when important legislation is being considered.
Together, education, advocacy, and community partnerships can help ensure older adults continue to have access to the services and supports they need to age.
