What intervention should a nurse suggest to help an older adult with a limited income afford healthy food?

Educating an older adult about government food programs is an effective intervention because many of these programs are specifically designed to assist individuals with limited incomes in accessing healthy food options. Programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can provide eligible individuals with funds to purchase groceries, thereby alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with maintaining a healthy diet. This approach not only promotes food security but also empowers individuals by informing them of available resources that they may not be aware of.

Other strategies, such as advising to eat less food, do not inherently address the underlying issue of affording healthy options and could contribute to inadequate nutrition. Suggesting taking out a loan for groceries could exacerbate financial strain rather than alleviate it and might not lead to long-term dietary improvements. Encouraging the purchase of only organic foods can be financially unrealistic for someone on a limited income, as organic products often come with higher price tags that may not be feasible to maintain every week. Thus, education about existing government food programs is a more sustainable and supportive approach to helping older adults make healthier food choices within their means.