1. Purpose – The purpose of the OCNP is to promote the general health and well-being of older individuals by reducing hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. It is also designed to encourage socialization to improve overall health outcomes. OCNP providers procure, prepare, transport, and serve meals to eligible individuals. Providers also conduct nutrition screenings and provide nutrition education at congregate sites and/or individuals’ place of residence. 2. Goal –The goal of the OCNP is to maintain or improve the physical, psychological, and social wellbeing of older individuals by providing or securing appropriate nutrition services and offering opportunities for socialization. 3. Objectives a. Give preference to older individuals in greatest economic or social need with particular attention to low-income minority individuals. b. Serve meals that provide one-third (1/3) of the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and are safe and of good quality. c. Promote and maintain high food safety and sanitation standards. d. Promote good health behaviors through nutrition education and nutrition screening of participants. e. Promote or maintain coordination with other nutrition-related supportive services for older individuals.
