Meals on Wheels is vital to community

Photo Submitted: Meals on Wheels

As I was developing this piece about Meals on Wheels and their significant contribution to the communities they serve, it occurs to me that I, too, benefit from meals on wheels -- delivered to my desk while I write or my lounge chair while I binge on a favourite BritDram. My wheels take the form of a wheeled walker that I began using when it became clear it wasn’t safe for me to carry plates of food with one hand while balancing my walking with the other, touching furniture and the like. The meals are home made, from scratch. If you see yourself in that image, consider your own wheels for meals for in-home use. You won’t be disappointed. I only wish the model I got was available in red.

Meals on Wheels Fredericton, in operation since 1967, would struggle to meet the needs in the community where many people depend on their assistance with daily meals were it not for the volunteering spirit of people who have time to give. As with many other volunteer agencies, they’re always looking for ‘new blood’. If you feel you’d like to be part of their team, give them a call at 506-458-9482.

Even where I live, serviced by Upper Nashwaak Community Outreach, Meals on Wheels volunteers are always being sought after.  If interested, call 506-367-7735 for information.

More volunteers are needed across the board, with all service agencies, from those catering to the needs of infants and children right on through to community services for the elderly and infirm. Delivering meals is one such service that contributes to the health and wellness of those who don’t easily get out and about to participate in the community. What must never be forgotten is that they are still part of the community. The volunteers who devote time and attention to meeting these needs are often seen as unsung heroes. You’ll never hear them singing their own praises. That’s not why they do what they do. 

Ranks of volunteers with Meals on Wheels and other agencies of volunteer service routinely ‘top up’ to ensure they have enough bodies to get the jobs done. Many have been with them for decades and among that number quite a few volunteer with other services agencies. Imagine what our communities would be like without them? So, to Lynne and Marc Aube and all the rest of the teams out there  -- “you are appreciated, you matter and we see you. Thank you.”

                                                   

To know that meals are prepared at the well equipped facilities at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital and the Meals On Wheels kitchen ensures that accommodation is made for a range of dietary restrictions, reassuring to family members of those who are recipients of the meals. As well, it’s heartening to know that those nutritious meals are delivered by caring people who do much more than deliver food; they’re a social connection, mindful of the atmosphere of the homes they visit, and if something doesn’t seem right, doesn’t feel right, volunteers will do the ‘good citizen’ thing and connect with someone who can visit the home to assess needs.

As this little old lady senior educated herself about the services available via Meals on Wheels, I learned about The Wheels to Meals Senior Dine-out luncheon program, in operation since 2000. Though the program has been on pause throughout the pandemic, relaunch is anticipated in the Fall.  Every Tuesday from September to May, approximately 50 seniors dine and engage in conversation,  with entertainment provided by local volunteer groups. The dedicated volunteers who provide transportation to and from such events are doing more than they perhaps realize. Boosting the number of volunteers strengthens the program so that no one who needs a hand up gets left out. Proper nutrition provided by Meals On Wheels also dials back episodes of dementia. When frail seniors eat in isolation, they often don’t eat enough, drink enough water, etc. A real live person with whom to engage is just as important as the food on the plate.

These opportunities for social connection contribute to the physical and emotional health of all who avail themselves of the services, whether client or volunteer. Volunteering gives purpose to daily life of those who have left a decades long ‘dressed for success’ worklife to join groups to fill their retirement days in a meaningful way while meeting with people who are challenged by issues that limit their full inclusion in community life. Aging and declining health impact the body and soul in ways that significantly contribute to people ‘working themselves into a state’ out of frustration and loneliness.

 

I learned decades ago, in a conversation with my father, who ‘doctored’ in Carleton County communities out of the then Northern Carleton Hospital, that a certain percentage of his admitted patients were hospitalized to treat social isolation. A day or two in the hospital was often sufficient for the person to reset him/herself emotionally, return home and carry on until the next wave of fear and anxiety overtook them. Physicians would do well to pay attention to what they’re not hearing during consults/assessments. They’re often key players in recommending that patients be assessed for programs such as Meals on Wheels or Extra Mural Program. Ultimately, it’s a collaborative effort and one that is important for every community where seniors are striving diligently to ‘age in place’. 

Bon appétit!

Carla MacInnis Rockwell is a freelance writer and disability rights advocate living outside Fredericton, NB with Miss Lexie, a rambunctious Maltese and Mr. Malcolm, a boisterous Havanese. She can be reached via email at Carla MacInnis Rockwell