SNAP Will Be Easier for Seniors

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment rates among older adults remain consistently low, despite being a population group with high food insecurity and nutrition-related health risks.

To address this issue, Louisiana has planned to launch the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) in the summer, which is a demonstration project designed to increase SNAP participation among low-income elderly populations by simplifying the application and certification process.

ESAPs will be limited to households that only include elderly members with no earned income. Eligible seniors will be certified for up to 36 months (about 3 years), extending the time for requalification or submitting additional income eligibility records. Given that seniors with no earned income are likely to remain eligible for a long time, it makes sense to provide a longer certification period.

Typically, each re-certification requires a full interview, which can be a barrier for many households, leading to lapses in benefits. Under ESAP, this requirement will be waived, making it easier for elderly individuals to maintain their SNAP benefits.

The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services website is expected to provide more information about ESAP by June 2024.

With this initiative, Louisiana aims to reduce food insecurity among the elderly and improve their overall health and well-being.