Developing a continuum of community nutrition services: Massachusetts elderly nutrition programs

A detailed report discusses the costs, characteristics, and effectiveness of elderly nutrition programs in Massachusetts. Specific attention is given to: the functioning and effectiveness of these programs for providing nutritional support for ambulatory elderly subjects having the greatest economic and social needs; serving the frail elderly; the benefits and effectiveness of luncheon clubs; requirements in addition to provision of "meals on wheel"; and the importance of nutrition and health education for elderly subjects. Special attention also is given to the cost of such programs, including meal costs and a breakdown of state nutrition program expenditures according to the diversification of income from federal and state programs and from donations