https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1044207317710701">
 

Food insecurity across the adult lifespan for persons with disabilities

Debra L. Brucker, University of New Hampshire, Durham
Alisha Coleman-Jensen, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Abstract

Food insecurity is an inability to afford the food necessary for a healthy, active life. Using pooled data from the 2011–2014 National Health Interview Survey, this study compares food insecurity among young adults, working-age adults, and older adults with and without disabilities. Results confirm that adults with disabilities have higher odds of living in food-insecure households than adults without disabilities. For adults with and without disabilities, working-age persons face the highest levels of food insecurity compared with other age groups. Older adults face the lowest odds of living in food-insecure households. Across all age groups, persons with mental health limitations are particularly vulnerable.