Research

Senior Hunger Research

Our research aims to identify the prevalence of food insecurity among seniors and older adults and to shed light on seniors' unique needs, characteristics, and risk factors. Insights from our research inform our efforts to eliminate senior hunger.

Published

Map the Meal Gap 2025 (2023 data) Report

Food Insecurity Among Seniors and Older Adults in 2023

As part of the Map the Meal Gap study, Feeding America has released updated 2023 estimates of food insecurity among seniors (60+) and older adults (50-59). Available data includes:

  • Overall food insecurity rate at the national level for seniors and older adults
  • National food insecurity rates by various characteristics and populations
  • State level and select metro area level food insecurity rates for seniors and older adults

This release marks the eleventh year overall that Feeding America has released national and state level data about the aging population.

 

2023 senior and older adults food insecurity estimates are now available in the Map the Meal Gap interactive map, dataset, report, and technical appendix:  

Access the interactive map: MMG Interactive Map 

Request the data: Data Request Form 

Access the report and technical appendix: Food Insecurity Report Briefs
 

 

Research Archive

Access previous releases of senior and older adult food insecurity estimates

Access the 2015 study, Baby Boomer and Beyond: Facing Hunger After Fifty

12.6 million

Seniors and older adults experience food insecurity

8 out of 10

states with high senior food insecurity are in the South

18.2% vs 8.9%

seniors who live with a grandchild are twice as likely to be food insecure than those that do not