Food access in older age: Where to get help
People ages 60 years or above with certain incomes can qualify for SNAP food benefits, while those eligible for Medicare may get a food allowance from certain Advantage plans. Additional programs also provide direct access to food.
As people age, their chance of age-related physical changes and chronic conditions increases. These factors can influence appetite and nutrient absorption, making a balanced diet especially important.
However, many older people in the United States may find it difficult to access a steady supply of food, whether because of limited incomes or food scarcity in their areas. Food insecurity is said to affect at least 1 in 15 adults over 60. Among those over 65, rates of food insecurity have continued to rise, reaching more than 9% in 2022.
For these reasons, food allowances and food programs are particularly important for older adults. This article discusses the main ways an older adult can get a food allowance or help accessing food.
Generally, there are two government sources from which older adults experiencing food insecurity may be able to get a stipend or allowance toward food.
The first option is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. SNAP gives a qualifying person a monthly grocery allowance through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In 2025, the maximum benefit for a single-person household starts at $292 per month.
In addition, a person may be able to get a food allowance from certain Medicare plans. Original Medicare (parts A and B) does not provide a food allowance. However, many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, particularly special needs plans (SNPs), may offer a grocery stipend or Flex card that a person can use to buy food.
To qualify for SNAP, households must generally spend at least 30% of their budget on food.
That said, adults over 60 years and individuals with certain disabilities generally qualify if their gross monthly income is at 130% of the federal poverty level. Applicants apply directly through their local SNAP agency.
Meanwhile, Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, though younger individuals with certain disabilities also qualify. After enrolling in Original Medicare, beneficiaries can choose to join a Medicare Advantage plan.
To determine which ones provide a food benefit, a person must look at the available Part C plans on Medicare.gov. If they wish to enroll in an SNP, they will need to fulfill additional requirements.
Outside of a food allowance, several programs help older adults gain direct access to food. The following chart provides an overview of the main options:
Applicants must apply and determine their specific eligibility locally. This is because the states generally administer these programs.
As people grow older, physical changes and chronic conditions can affect appetite and nutrient absorption, making healthy eating even more important.
However, many older adults in the United States experience food insecurity, which means they have challenges in affording or accessing nutritious meals.
To offset this, older adults with lower incomes may qualify for SNAP, while Medicare enrollees can choose Advantage plans offering food allowances. Additional state-run programs can also help provide direct access to affordable food.