Does the OAA provide options for self-directed nutrition choices?
The OAA definition of “self-directed care” (Sec. 102(46) indicates that SUAs, AAAs and ITOs have the opportunity to expand decision-making roles of consumers in the type, amount, management, and budgeting of home and community based services they receive. For an individual able to actively participate in informed decision making and able to make appropriate choices, these services may include congregate and home delivered meals. Individuals choosing self-directed nutrition services may benefit from nutrition education and nutrition counseling. This counseling may include an appropriate nutrition care plan, instruction on appropriate food choices based on needs, and other mechanisms such as vouchers. One example of enhanced nutrition choice is offering a soup and salad bar or soup and sandwich bar as an alternative to a hot meal. The Older Americans Act (OAA) does not prescribe and therefore offers considerable flexibility in menu format, meal pattern and method of service. Each State w
