A Career of Service and Growth
As the senior meal industry continues to grow and change, TRIO Community Meals reflects on the ever-changing landscape. Few have witnessed these shifts as closely as Scott Ball, whose 30-year career has shaped how TRIO delivers on its mission today.
In 1993, Scott joined what was then the Valley, and by 2000, he was leading efforts to expand Meals on Wheels programs across the Southeast. Later, Valley became part of what is now Elior North America. Through these transitions, Scott has seen firsthand how the industry has evolved, balancing mission with innovation.
From Mission to Mission-Driven Business
“Thirty years ago, Meals on Wheels was mainly a social service, taking care of seniors and having a mission,” Scott explains. “That is still the goal, but now these leaders have become more business-oriented–partnering with companies, collaborating with healthcare systems, and advocating more strongly for the mission.”
This shift reflects a broader transformation: senior meal providers remain deeply mission-driven, but they are also thinking strategically, ensuring programs are sustainable and impactful.
Meeting the Changing Needs of Older Adults
In the past decade, expectations of older adults have grown. Today, they are more diverse, more informed, and more discerning about their food choices. “Clients and prospects want more variety, healthier meals, and higher-quality options,” Scott says.
TRIO addresses these changing needs by:
- Refreshing menus frequently
- Offering culturally diverse dishes
- Prioritizing nutritious, dietitian-curated meals
This commitment ensures that TRIO remains both relevant and responsive to the people we serve.
The Role of Innovation and Technology
Technology has also become a game-changer.
“Delivery technology has truly transformed the way we care for older adults,” Scott notes. “It is not only about bringing meals to their doorsteps but also about checking in on their well-being and fostering meaningful social connections, which have become just as crucial as the meals themselves.”
Other advancements, such as menu management systems and digital client surveys, enable TRIO to:
- Streamline meal planning and updates
- Gather real-time feedback to improve service
- Strengthen client relationships
Looking Ahead: Medically Tailored Meals and Data-Driven Impact
The future of the industry, Scott believes, will expand in medically tailored meals–customized options designed for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. These meals not only improve health outcomes but also reduce healthcare costs by helping individuals remain healthy at home.
Scott is most excited about the growing body of data demonstrating the impact of Meals on Wheels programs. “We all knew this was the right thing to do, but seeing the actual data and results is rewarding,” he shares. “The data shows the benefit of keeping older adults healthy and at home.”
Continuing the Mission Together
As the senior nutrition industry continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: TRIO Community Meals’ commitment to serving older adults with compassion, innovation, and excellence. With leaders like Scott guiding the way, the future is bright for the communities we serve.
At TRIO, we’re proud to combine decades of experience with forward-thinking solutions to meet the needs of today’s older adults. If you’d like to learn more about our programs or partner with us to bring meals and care to your community, contact us today.
