United Way is committed to improving the health and independence of older adults in our community.

The North Texas Area United Way is committed to affecting system change and funding programs that produce the following outcomes in the area of Greater Independence Among Older Adults.

• Increasing access to balanced and nutritious food for population with health risks associated with poor nutrition.
• Increasing availability of transportation services to those with limited or unreliable transportation options.
• Increasing the number of clients successfully referred to/enrolled in supportive services.
• Increasing access to prescription medication assistance for the uninsured and underinsured

Why are we focusing on improving the health of our community?

• During the 20th century, the number of people over 65 increased by a factor of 11, compared to a factor of three for the rest of the population.
• According to the Census Bureau projection, the population of elderly citizens will more than double to 80 million between now and the year 2030. American seniors ages 85 and older are the most rapidly growing age group.
• 14% of congregate participants and 26% of home-delivered participants are 85 years and older.
• Health care cost are projected to increase 25% unless we focus on maintaining and improving health of older adults
• Texas has the highest percent of uninsured children in the nation 28.3%
• 50% of bankruptcies in the U.S. are due to medical debt