Somerset County Operated Senior Wellness Centers Offer Low-Cost, Nutritious Meals

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ – Although donuts, devil’s food cake, and deep-fried chicken are tasty, experts say consuming unhealthy foods can shorten one’s life and cause health problems. Research shows that healthy eating leads to healthy aging and is a key to longevity. As reported by the American Medical Association, a steady diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes can significantly reduce the risk of early death.

Malnourished older adults are at a greater risk for falls, illness, speech impairment, poor eyesight, and heart problems. One cause of malnutrition is food insecurity, which is a pervasive problem throughout the U.S. In New Jersey, approximately 200,000 older adults were food insecure over the past few years.

How can older adults combat food insecurity and malnutrition? Consuming nutritious food, and taking advantage of local resources are ways to help seniors have greater access to healthy food. For example, residents aged 60 years and older can register to attend any of the six county-operated senior wellness centers and have a nutritionally balanced lunch. The menus offer a selection of hot meat-based or meatless entrées or cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunches. Lunches are available to senior center members throughout the week for a small donation.

“Our registered dietitians have developed menus for congregate meals and the Home Delivered Meals program based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The menus at the senior centers have been tailored specifically to meet one-third of the daily nutritional requirements for older adults, and we have been told the meals are tasty,” said Nutrition and Wellness Administrator Sheetal Bhatia, M.S., M.P.H., R.D.N. “We also provide interesting and fun educational nutrition activities and presentations.”

One senior wellness center participant said, “I'm grateful for all the different salads, fruits, and vegetables that the center offers, including chicken cranberry salad, tuna, egg salad, and hamburgers, which are my favorite meals. And carrot ginger, potato, and corn are my favorite soups,”

Additionally, the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services is offering $40 farmers’ market vouchers to eligible residents. Seniors who are 60 years and older and meet the income eligibility limits can receive vouchers to use at local farm stands to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs with vouchers. Eligible individuals can receive this benefit once during the 2025 season, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligibility Requirements
Vouchers are available between May 1 and Sept. 2025 and can be redeemed at participating farmers’ markets until Nov. 30, 2025.

Earnings
Single individuals can earn up to a maximum of $28,953 annually, and couples can earn a combined income of up to a maximum of $39,128.

Identification
Applicants must show proof of identification, residence, and income. For more information about Farmers Market Vouchers, call the Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services at 908-704-6346.

More About Lunch at the Senior Wellness Centers
Somerset County-operated senior wellness centers offer nutritionally balanced lunches, Monday through Friday, for a suggested donation of $2.50 from anyone aged 60 years and older. The cost of lunch for those under 60 is $8.47. The menu includes options for hot meat-based or meatless entrées or cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunches. Participants should make reservations for lunch by 10 a.m. at least one business day before they plan to attend.

To learn more about Somerset County, register for free email alerts at somersetcountynj.gov/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.

About Somerset County
The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.

Office on Aging and Disability Services (OOADS)
The OOADS provides information and assistance with aging safely in place at home and in the community. For assistance with caregiver support and resources, call 908-704-6346 or toll-free at 1-888-747-1122. The staff will be available to meet at the senior center or the client’s home at their convenience.

Somerset County-Operated Senior Wellness Centers
The Office on Aging and Disability Services manages Somerset County’s six multi-purpose senior wellness centers, which offer a variety of activities and educational programs. A stimulating social setting with health and wellness classes, and exercise and crafting programs are available at the senior wellness centers.

July Calendar of Activities and Programs Happening at Somerset County-Operated Senior Centers

The six county-operated senior centers are open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Centers will be closed on July 4th for Independence Day.

More News from Raritan

• Beauty Buzz: COSRX's Peptide-132 Hair Treatment Becomes Amazon's #1 New Release in Just 4 Days COSRX - Snail Mucin Essence is a top-selling skincare item on Amazon.
• ICYMI - Multiple Accolades Earned at NJLA Honors and Awards Ceremony for SCLSNJ The esteemed Library Champion Award was presented to Jasmine D. McCoy, Borough Administrator for Bound Brook.