Ohio Department of Aging
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June 2007
Farmers' Markets and Older Ohioans - Growing Healthy Together
This is the third and final article in a series examining the issue of access to proper nutrition by older Ohioans. Read the first installment and the second installment.
Ohio has about 600 farm markets, roadside markets, farmers' markets and pick-your-own produce vendors. In addition, the state is home to a broad array of locally grown produce, including apples, many types of berries, beans, sweet corn, tomatoes and much more. At some markets, you might even find dairy products, farm-raised meat, honey, fresh baked goods, potted plants, herbs and other items. Unlike at most supermarkets, at a farmers' market, you can buy some of these foods just hours, even minutes, after they were picked - grown in Ohio by Ohioans.
Farmers' markets also have a variety of qualities that make them particularly appealing to older consumers. When you buy directly from the grower, you get the freshest produce possible, plus you have an opportunity to learn about the product and get advice for storing and preparing it. Markets also provide an excellent opportunity for socialization and exercise, especially the pick-your-own types of markets.
Wide open outdoor markets - often hosted in parks, fairgrounds and parking lots - can sometimes be easier to navigate than supermarket aisles for people with physical limitations. They are also less flashy and tend to have fewer ads, displays and music that may distract people with sensory issues. In addition, many senior and community centers and local transportation authorities offer free or low-cost transportation to and from farmers' markets.
Most of the farmers who sell produce at markets are small farm operators who work and manage their own operations and return much of the money they earn into the local economy. Plus, many merchants are themselves seniors.
To learn more about the many different types of farmers' markets in Ohio and to find a market in your area, call 1-800-IM-PROUD or visit www.ohioproud.org.
Ohio Department of Aging