Contributed Article By Chelsea Couch, Statewide Texercise Coordinator

National Nutrition Month is a great time to learn about older adults’ changing nutritional needs and the eating habits that are important to healthy aging.

The nutrients in the food we eat are vital to good health. They help the body heal and provide energy. Healthy eating is not only about the foods we eat but also about good habits like having the right portion sizes, reading nutrition labels and substituting with healthier options. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides nutrition information and recommendations for all ages through the MyPlate program. To learn more, visit myplate.gov.

The Texas Health and Human Services Texercise initiative has free resources to engage older Texans in healthy lifestyle behaviors, including physical activity and eating habits. Use the Aging Well Resources Order Form to download Texercise resources.

Texercise also offers programs organizations can provide to their communities. Texercise Nourish is a free 12-week nutrition education program that educates and engages with older adults on healthy eating behaviors. To learn more, visit texercise.com.

Other HHS nutrition services and resources include:

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assists people with buying the food they need for good health. Learn how to apply and purchase food online at yourtexasbenefits.com.

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) provide older adults, their families and caregivers with nutrition services like home and congregate meals. Connect with the nearest AAA and learn about available nutrition services by calling HHS at 800-252-9240.

• Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) are part of the No Wrong Door System and help streamline access to long-term services and support for the whole family. To learn more, visit hhs.texas.gov/providers/long-term-care-providers/aging-disability-resource-center-adrc. Learn more about the full range of available long-term supports by calling HHS at 855-937-2372.