(P02-104-25) Farmers’ Market Program (FMP) Increases Access to Fruits and Vegetables and Decreases Social Isolation Among Vulnerable Older Adults During COVID19 and Four Years Later

Objectives: To assess the influence of an FMP on improving fruit and vegetable access while decreasing social isolation among older adults.

Methods: In October 2020 (n=116) and again in 2024 (n=123), FMP participants completed a survey that included questions on demographics, fruit and vegetable access and intake, and social isolation.

Results: Participant demographics were similar in 2020 and 2024 respectively, mostly women (82%, 75%), White (90%, 83%), aged over 70 years (80.4%, 86%) age range 57-91 years in 2020 and 61-96 years in 2024, had at least one chronic disease (83%, 86%), and as likely to live alone (50%, 51%) as with others. In 2020 and 2024, participants had increased fruit and vegetable access (78.1%, 89%) and intake (68.6%, 76%) compared to prior to FMP participation. More participants reported reduced feelings of isolation because of program participation in 2020 (70%) than in 2024 (56%). Interestingly, 75% in 2020 and 73% in 2024 reported that it was important to them that the FMP provided social opportunities.

Conclusions: The FMP increased fruit and vegetable access and intake while decreasing feelings of social isolation. Evaluations of food access programs should also assess social isolation to demonstrate additional impacts of programs.

Funding Sources: UMass Amherst, USDA NIFA MAS00577