Supporting Brain Health Through Meals and Care

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a reminder that supporting seniors means caring not only for physical health but also for cognitive and emotional well-being.

At St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, our kitchen team works every day to prepare meals that are both nourishing and thoughtfully balanced for the seniors we serve across Los Angeles County. Under the guidance of Registered Dietitian Brooke Rosell, MS, RD, and in collaboration with Chef Carlos and Sandy Leon, menus are carefully developed to support overall senior health — a growing challenge at a time when food costs continue to rise sharply.

Research continues to show the importance of balanced nutrition, fresh ingredients, healthy fats, vegetables, whole grains, and social connection in helping support brain health as we age. Just as important are the daily visits, wellness checks, and human connection that remind seniors they are not alone.

Because maintaining health is about more than food alone. It is also about engagement, dignity, routine, conversation, and care.

As St. Vincent Meals on Wheels approaches 50 years of preparing and delivering food and love to homebound seniors, we also know the need will continue to grow. California’s senior population is expanding rapidly, and more older adults than ever will rely on programs like ours to remain healthy, connected, and safely in their homes.

With your continued support, we will continue to be that safety net — not only for today’s seniors, but for the generations still to come.