The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) wants to help older adults avoid becoming some of the 128,000 Americans who are hospitalized from foodborne illness each year. According to the USDA, older adults are at an increased risk of foodborne illness, and if they do become ill, the symptoms may be more severe and have a higher chance to result in hospitalization. Preventing foodborne illness is essential for people of all ages, and the USDA promotes four simple steps at home — clean, separate, cook and chill — to prevent illness. This summer, the USDA is also promoting tips for safe grilling and how to keep bacteria from growing in your food during hot days. More information is available at foodsafety.gov,