Meals also have emotional and social meaning including a time for sharing information, family gatherings, and meeting with friends. So-cial occasions such as birthdays, holidays and picnics are associated with food. When the social element is lost, regular mealtimes can lose their significance. There are community nutrition programs at senior citizens centers, churches and other com-munity organizations which provide nutritious meals, fellowship and transportation. Income, transportation and housing.
Most older adults have to cope with less income.
This often means less money for food which may lead to poorer diets. Some older adults have to move to less expensive living quarters which may have inadequate facilities for storing and preparing foods. There may be little money for transportation to grocery stores. These limitations can dramatically decrease the quality of a person's diet and affect his or her attitude toward eating. Tips to Deal with Factors which Affect Nutrition Many of the physical, emotional and social changes that occur with aging can cause many people to lose their appetite.