Nearly 1 in 3 Low-Income Older Adults in Salt Lake County Report Poor Physical Health

Salt Lake County, UT — New findings from a Salt Lake County-commissioned study show that low-income older adults in the County reported poor physical health, underscoring the importance of access to nutrition, preventive care, and age-friendly services in supporting healthy aging.

The study was commissioned by the Salt Lake County Office of Regional Development in partnership with Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services as part of Age-Friendly Salt Lake County, an initiative in partnership with AARP that seeks to make communities better for people of all ages, especially older adults.

According to the Health and Nutrition report produced by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, nearly 1 in 5 older adults in Salt Lake County report poor physical health. Among low-income older adults, that number rises to nearly 1 in 3 (28.2%).

"Salt Lake County believes access to these critical age-friendly services is not a luxury; it is a necessity because staying healthy often depends on more than a regular doctor's visit," said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. "We remain deeply committed to advancing healthy aging and to removing barriers that stand between older adults and the nourishment, connection, and practical support they need to live with dignity, independence, and peace of mind."

The Health and Nutrition findings reinforce the importance of prevention and consistent support for older adults who face the greatest barriers. With February being Heart Health Month, it is important to recognize that the risk for heart diseases goes up as one ages and that behaviors—lack of or minimal physical activity, unhealthy diet, tobacco use—add to one's risk.

"This report is a clear reminder that positive physical health is not experienced evenly across our community," said Salt Lake County Council Member Jiro Johnson. "As Salt Lake County's older population continues to grow, we have a responsibility to keep investing in practical supports that help people stay healthy and connected throughout their lifetime."

Additional findings from the Health and Nutrition report will be released in the coming months, followed by a formal presentation to the Salt Lake County Council and opportunities for media to speak with subject matter experts.

Salt Lake County supports the well-being of older adults through a range of nutrition and health services. Aging & Adult Services provides nutrition and health programs, including evidence-based classes that help older adults prevent and manage chronic conditions.

The County also offers Heart Health Kits at Salt Lake County Library branches via a partnership with the Health Department, Active Aging programs at senior centers and County recreation centers, and Rides for Wellness, which provides transportation to medical appointments. Additionally, discounted recreation center passes are available to seniors, aged 62-79, and individuals 80 and older may use the recreation centers at no cost.

These efforts are part of Age-Friendly Salt Lake County. Three reports from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute will be released over the course of 2026, each previewed through monthly data highlights and followed by a full report release and presentation to the Salt Lake County Council. The Salt Lake County's Older Adults: Health and Nutrition Characteristics report is scheduled for release in April.