IMPORTANT NOTE:
Visit CDA’s Emergency Preparedness page for tips and resources on winter storms and other emergency preparedness.
The California Department of Aging (CDA) administers programs that serve older adults, adults with disabilities, family caregivers, and residents in long-term care facilities throughout the State. These services are provided locally by contracted agencies. This webpage is intended for those who provide, or seek to provide a variety of aging services.
CDA administers the Older Americans Act Elderly Nutrition Program (ENP) services through the area agencies on aging and their service providers. The ENP helps older adults remain independent and in their communities. Meals must meet nutritional standards by incorporating the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and providing a minimum of one-third of the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs). Meals must also meet the Nutrition Services Incentive Program (NSIP) requirements.
The Congregate Nutrition Program (Title IIIC-1) addresses dietary inadequacy and social isolation among individuals aged 60 and older. The Program provides nutrition education, nutrition risk screening and, in some Planning and Service Areas, nutrition counseling. The program targets older individuals with the greatest economic or social need, with particular attention given to low-income minority older individuals and older individuals living in rural areas. The program encourages the use of volunteers and gives all participants the opportunity to contribute to the meal cost.
The Home-Delivered Nutrition Program (Title IIIC-2) provides nutritious meals, nutrition education, and nutrition risk screening to individuals 60 years of age or over who are homebound by reason of illness or disability, or who are otherwise isolated. Program goals are targeted to the reduction of social isolation and the promotion of better health through nutrition. Most home-delivered meal programs provide their clients with a hot meal five days a week delivered by staff or volunteer drivers. In addition, nutrition education is provided and nutrition counseling may be available.