Age Well brings together leading experts and advocates dedicated to supporting the aging population of Northwestern Vermont. Guided by the belief that health happens at home, the organization focuses on lifestyle, happiness, and wellness, empowering older adults through meaningful community connections and access to essential services.
Strong partnerships make that mission possible. For years, Age Well has worked alongside TRIO to ensure older adults receive reliable, nutritious meals that support their health and independence.
Recently, Chris Moldovan, Director of Nutrition and Wellness at Age Well, shared how this collaboration continues to strengthen both their program and the communities they serve.
Meeting Nutritional Needs in Rural Communities
In her role, Chris supports older Vermonters access to meals that meet their unique nutritional needs. “We strive to provide meals that not only help manage chronic health conditions but are also appealing, comforting, and satisfying,” she explains. Access to these services is especially important in a rural state like Vermont, where transportation challenges and geographic isolation can limit access to food and healthcare resources. Age Well works closely with TRIO to ensure meals reach individuals who rely on them.
Through Meals on Wheels, with meals prepared by TRIO, Age Well can focus on supporting the people behind the program. “While Meals on Wheels provides nourishment, it is truly client-centered and driven by the needs and goals of the individuals we serve,” Chris says. A diverse menu also allows programs to select meals that feel familiar and comforting for their communities, helping ensure clients look forward to what arrives at their door.
Connection, Safety, and Independence
For Age Well, the value of a meal delivery goes far beyond nutrition. “Beyond the meal encompasses everything that happens beyond food delivery. It means connection, safety, and trust,” Chris shares. The meals provide important nourishment, but the delivery itself offers something equally meaningful: a daily point of contact that helps older adults remain safely independent at home.
As a dietitian, Chris frequently works with clients, supporting them to navigate new challenges related to food and health. Some may have lost a spouse who previously handled cooking. Other experiences include changes in appetite, difficulty grocery shopping, or uncertainty about portion sizes and nutrition labels. Providing properly portioned meals, along with practical guidance, can help clients better manage chronic conditions and regain confidence in caring for themselves.
The Heart of the Program
Volunteers and staff play a main role in Age Well’s impact. “When a volunteer knocks on the door, they’re not just dropping off a meal–they’re checking in,” Chris says. These brief daily visits often include conversation and social connection, which can be especially meaningful for individuals experiencing isolation. For some clients, the visit may be the only interaction they have that day.
Routine and dignity are also important.
“For some clients, simply knowing their meal will arrive gives them a reason to get dressed and prepare for the day,” Chris explains.
Over time, these small moments build trust and familiarity. Many volunteers form lasting relationships with the people they serve, helping clients feel seen, valued, and less alone.
Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
Working in aging services often requires flexibility, empathy, and strong community partnerships. “Aging doesn’t always unfold the way people expect,” Chris reflects. “After many years working in this field, the most meaningful feedback comes from clients who say their lives have changed.” Many individuals receiving meals are navigating major life transitions–loss of a partner, cooking for themselves for the first time, or learning how to manage their health in new ways.
Sometimes, small adjustments make a significant difference. Learning appropriate portion sizes, having balanced meals delivered regularly, or receiving simple nutrition guidance can help clients regain stability and confidence.
Clients frequently share that the meals help them better visualize portion sizes and maintain healthier habits. Just as important is the sense of care and connection. “I’ve heard clients say that seeing the volunteer brightens their day–that they feel cared for and that someone is looking out for them.”
A Partnership Built on Collaboration
Age Well’s partnership with TRIO has evolved through years of collaboration and shared commitment to the community.
“We’ve been fortunate to partner with TRIO for nearly 20 years,” Chris says. “They work closely with us to ensure we provide high-quality meals tailored to our clients’ needs.”
In Rutland, Food Service Director Doug Jones and his team have developed a strong working relationship with Age Well. Together, they’ve created collaborative menus and hosted annual picnics and gatherings where participants can meet the team preparing their meals. These events offer clients a chance to connect with the people behind the service, often resulting in smiles and conversations.
The partnership has also proven essential during challenging moments. During winter storms, severe weather, and even the pandemic, Age Well and TRIO worked together to coordinate emergency meal deliveries and adapt operations as needed. That flexibility and ongoing communication help ensure that older adults continue to receive the support they depend on, no matter the circumstances.
Programs like Age Well demonstrate that when nutrition, compassion, and community come together, older adults can continue to live healthier, more connected lives at home. Connect with us today to discuss how TRIO can support your program.
