Editor’s note: This article was written by Leigh-Anne Lees, VPAS community relations director.
Family dinners of my youth were rarely quiet. They were lively, full of laughter and good-natured debate that lingered long after the casserole cooled. Neighborhood friends pulled up extra chairs. At least once a week, my grandparents joined us, too, bringing their unique perspectives to the table - along with generous helpings of storytelling.
Looking back, I realize those meals fed more than our bodies. They nourished our spirits. Around the dinner table, we built connection, memories, and tradition.
Today, shared meals are harder to come by. Social structures have shifted. Families are smaller. Work schedules are fuller. And for many older adults, the table has grown quieter.
Nearly 30 percent of adults age 60 and over in Buena Vista, Lexington and Rockbridge County live alone, according to the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service. Many have lost spouses, siblings, and lifelong friends. Living alone can increase the risk of social isolation. And isolation is closely linked to malnutrition, depression, cognitive decline, and other serious health conditions.
When older adults share meals with others, they eat more and improve their nutritional intake. But meals together matter for connection, too. Dining with others strengthens social bonds, reduces loneliness, and enhances well-being.
That’s why during Senior Nutrition Month each March, Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) highlights the social and nutritional needs of older adults through the No Senior Eats Alone initiative. It’s a simple but powerful call to action: invite an older neighbor to share a meal. Join a VPAS cafe. Make room at your table.
Adults 60 and over are invited to enjoy lunch at a VPAS Cafe this month. In Buena Vista and Goshen, attendees will not only share meals together, but will also enjoy taste test challenges, learn about the MIND diet and neurobics, mingle and move, and play games. VPAS staff and Meals on Wheels volunteers with join these gatherings, too.
There is no cost to participate, but reservations are required. Call (540) 261-7474 to register.
Cafe Dates and Locations: • Goshen - March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 at the Goshen Community Center.
• Buena Vista – March 6, 13, 20 and 27 at Maury River Senior Services.
What are some other ways to serve up solutions that enrich the lives of older adults? Start a progressive dinner club in your neighborhood and invite older residents to participate. One home hosts the main course, others provide appetizers or dessert. Rotate. Keep it simple and joyful.
Belong to a church or civic group? Consider gathering to meal prep or eat together. The Community Table of Rockbridge is a weekly community meal described as a “restaurant without a cash register” where everyone is invited to share a meal and fellowship. And several churches in the community host meals for those who are food insecure. Check out Rockbridge Feeds at rockbridgefeeds.org for a complete schedule.
Or start with one small but meaningful gesture. Drop off soup and stay to share a bowl. Invite someone to sit beside you at lunch. Set one extra place at your table. Doing so can bring dignity, belonging, and the reminder that none of us is meant to age alone.
