Senior Nutrition Programs
Proper nutrition is one of the best predictors for long-term health and wellness, and can be a key factor in maintaining the quality of life for older adults. In accordance with statewide nutrition programs for the elderly, Charles County Department of Community Services administers a variety of quality nutrition services to senior residents of the county.
Click here to view a sample monthly menu (pdf)
Nutrition Program Eligibility
All persons aged 60 and older are eligible to participate in Senior Nutrition Programs. Spouses and Disabled children of eligible seniors may also participate, with approval from the Department.
Nutrition Program Services
Services provided through the Senior Nutrition Program include:
- Congregate Meals at Senior Centers Home Delivered Meals Nutrition Education Nutrition Assessment & Counseling
- Information & Referral
All menus provided through the Senior Nutrition Program are written by a Registered Dietitian and meet at least 1/3 of the Recommended Daily Allowances of vitamins and minerals for older adults.
Congregate Meals
Congregate Meals are available at all Senior Centers. This program provides nutritious luncheon meals with opportunities to socialize and meet new friends. Check with the senior center nearest you for days and hours of operation. Reservations are required and contributions toward the cost of the meal are requested.
Home Delivery
Home Delivered Meals may be available for eligible seniors and their spouses who are homebound due to illness or disability, and are unable to shop for food and prepare meals for themselves. Home Delivered Meals are provided through a cooperative effort between the Department of Community Services and local Meals-On-Wheels Providers. Contributions toward the cost of the meal are requested and may be based on a sliding scale.
Nutrition Program Referrals
Referrals are available for the following organizations & services:
- Food pantries or other emergency food services Private-pay programs, such as grocery & personal shopping services
- Providers-for-hire who may prepare meals in the home
Nutrition Education
Nutrition Education is provided through a variety of sources, including:
- Invited Speakers and Cooking Demonstrations at Senior Centers Sharing Nutritional Recipes & Tips Published Articles
- Training for Nutrition Volunteers at Senior Centers
Nutrition Counseling
Nutritional Counseling and Assessment is available through an appointment with the Nutritionist. The following services are available:
- Ask the Nutritionist: an opportunity to meet one-on-one to discuss dietary concerns and nutrition planning. Nutrition Consultations are available with a referral from a health care professional.
- Nutritional Counseling & Assessment Services are rendered free of charge to the recipient.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities exist for the following services:
- Drivers for Home Delivered Meals programs Servers, Hosts & Hostesses at Senior Centers
- Training is provided for all nutrition program volunteers.
Internet Links to Sites on Nutrition
Maryland Association of Senior Nutrition Programs (MASNP) provides information on congregate meals and more for counties within Maryland.
Nutrition Over the Lifecycle - Seniors
For more information on the nutrition programs offered here,
please contact us at:
Department of Community Services
Aging & Community Centers Division
8190 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco, MD 20677
301-934-9305 or 301-870-3388, ext. 5138
email: Nutritionist