Seniors and Sustenance: A Scoping Review on Food Security in the Elderly

The issue of food security amongst older people is a growing concern, as ageing populations face unique challenges that impact their access to adequate nutrition. This scoping review aims to explore and synthesise existing literature on food security in later life, identifying key factors contributing to food insecurity amongst seniors and highlighting interventions that can enhance food access. By employing a systematic approach based on Arksey and O'Malley's framework, this study examines research from multiple databases, focussing on studies published in the past decade. The findings reveal a multifaceted problem influenced by socio-economic status, health limitations, social isolation and geographic barriers. Elderly individuals often encounter mobility issues that hinder their ability to procure food, while fixed incomes and rising costs exacerbate their access to nutritious options. In addition, the review identifies successful community-based programmes and policy initiatives that have shown promise in addressing these challenges, emphasising the importance of tailored interventions that consider the specific needs of older people. The analysis highlights significant gaps in the current literature, particularly in the areas of culturally sensitive programmes and the long-term effects of food insecurity on mental health. Furthermore, the role of technology in mitigating food insecurity presents a promising yet underexplored avenue for future research. The review underscores the critical need for comprehensive strategies integrating policy, community support and technological innovations to effectively combat food insecurity amongst seniors. By addressing these issues, stakeholders can improve the overall quality of life and health outcomes for the elderly population, ensuring their nutritional needs are met sustainably.