The nutrition program for older Americans. Evaluation and recommendations.

A nutrition program for older Americans, funded under Title VII of the Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended, which served 547 persons over fifty-nine years of age, was evaluated. The results indicate the desirability of: (a) Employing dietitians to administer the program at regional, state, and area levels; (b) serving meals at least five days a week; and (c) including more than one-third of the Recommended Dietary Allowances in the meals served. Women, the socioeconomically disadvantaged, and the oldest senior citizens appeared to be helped the most by these programs. Analysis of blood samples indicated that emphasis on serving vitamin A- and ascorbic acid-rich fruits and vegetables and 3 oz. meat in each meal is warranted.