Proper nutrition is important throughout life and especially critical in late adulthood. Yet, it is estimated that 27% of older adults who live at home are at risk for malnutrition. The physical consequences of malnutrition in older adults can range from increased risk of falls to reduced immune function, all of which can result in injury, illness, and increased risk of fatality.

In fact, over 5 million seniors aged 60 and older were food insecure in 2021 — that’s one in 14 seniors or 7% of the senior population who didn’t have consistent access to quality food to meet their needs. 

Multiple factors contribute to food insecurity, like health conditions that make it difficult for a person to shop or cook, having no or unreliable transportation to and from the grocery store, and lacking the financial means to consistently buy nutritious foods. 

Fortunately, programs and services in the Portland area and Multnomah County can help provide meals for delivery to seniors for free or affordable prices. These programs are a safety net for our community’s seniors, helping make sure they get the nutritious meals they need to maintain their health and longevity.

If you or your senior loved one in the Portland or Multnomah County area could benefit from having prepared meals delivered to your door, check out these meal delivery resources below.

How Portland and Multnomah County seniors can get home-delivered meals

Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels People operates the Multnomah County-area Meals on Wheels program and delivers meals to Multnomah County residents aged 60 and over. They ask that recipients contribute what they can to the $10.50-per-meal cost. Meals on Wheels People also runs its Medically Tailored Meals program, which helps people with chronic conditions get the nutritious meals they need. 

Local senior centers work with Meals on Wheel People to ensure their communities’ older adults have access to the meals they need at home.

Mom’s Meals: Mom’s Meals delivers to many areas in the United States, and Multnomah County residents can benefit from this company’s nutritious meal delivery service. Customers can choose from a number of different diets and menu options at just $7.99 per meal. Gluten-free, renal, and pureed diet options are available for one dollar more per meal. The meals are delivered to your home in the right-size portions, are ready to heat, and can last up to two weeks after delivery when refrigerated.