Challenges Faced by Seniors in Dallas
Mar. 17, 2025
Updated Mar. 22, 2025 at 7:59 a.m. CDT
Introduction to Senior Challenges
According to the 2024 annual report from the Dallas Senior Affairs Commission, residents aged 65 and older are the fastest-growing segment of the city’s population.
The challenges faced by seniors and the elderly range from low incomes, living alone and with disabilities and mental health issues such as depression.
Income-Related Challenges
Income is often limited for the elderly. An estimated 29,685 seniors 60 and older and 8,198 seniors 75 and older have incomes below the federal poverty line of $14,040.
About 30,000 Dallas seniors 60 and older live on a monthly income of $1,000 or less.
Social Isolation and Mental Health
About 42,500 Dallas seniors live alone and are particularly susceptible to social isolation, which can affect their quality of life and their physical and mental health.
In its 2024 report, the Dallas Senior Affairs Commission said nonprofit organizations focused on senior services struggle to raise funds because most people do not understand the scope of the needs of this segment of the population.
Food Insecurity
Food insecurity has become a significant issue for Dallas residents of all ages, and the escalation in grocery store prices has compounded the problem, particularly for seniors living on a fixed income.
The North Texas Food Bank and Visiting Nurse Association’s Meals on Wheels programs are seeing record demand for assistance. According to Feeding Texas, Texas is eighth in the nation in food insecurity for seniors, with 9.8% of Texas seniors at risk for hunger.
The lack of grocery stores in proximity to seniors living in low-income neighborhoods is also a significant problem.
Available Resources
Dallas senior citizens can find help from federal, state, county and city governments as well as local nonprofits and volunteer organizations. Many organizations provide free or low-cost services for caregivers and seniors in Dallas.
- North Texas Food Bank: ntfb.org 214-330-1396
- Dallas Meals on Wheels: 214-689-2639
- Metrocrest Services: Helps with nutrition access, short-term rent/utility assistance, mobility options, community engagement, and health and safety modifications for homes. Additional details on services provided and eligibility requirements can be found metrocrestservices.org; call 972-446-2100
- Aging Information Office: Provides assistance with care coordination and family caregiver services; call 888-223-9509
- Housing: Dallas options for affordable housing for seniors, including low-income senior housing communities and government-funded programs; call (800) 304-7152
- Additional help: Call 2-1-1
Correction
CORRECTION, 7:50 p.m., March 21, 2025: An earlier version of this story listed incorrect information for Metrocrest Services.
Conclusion
The challenges faced by seniors in Dallas are multifaceted and require a comprehensive approach to address. By understanding the scope of the needs of this segment of the population, we can work towards providing them with the necessary support and resources to improve their quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest-growing segment of the population in Dallas?
A: According to the 2024 annual report from the Dallas Senior Affairs Commission, residents aged 65 and older are the fastest-growing segment of the city’s population.
Q: What are some of the challenges faced by seniors in Dallas?
A: The challenges faced by seniors in Dallas include low incomes, living alone, disabilities, mental health issues, and food insecurity.
Q: Where can seniors in Dallas find help?
A: Seniors in Dallas can find help from federal, state, county and city governments as well as local nonprofits and volunteer organizations, such as the North Texas Food Bank, Dallas Meals on Wheels, and Metrocrest Services.
