Gracefully Aging In Place, One Meal At A Time

"Don't regret growing older. It's a privilege denied to many." This quote was taken from the Fairfield County OH newsletter, “Alternatives For Older Adults,” and the feature of this episode!

We welcome Anna Tobin, Executive Director of the Meals on Wheels Fairfield County Program! We were at the Center to learn more about the senior services available in Lancaster and Fairfield County. And to celebrate their new facility with incredible services for the community to continue aging in place.

The Meals on Wheels programs actually began in England in the 1940s during the Blitz. It was a civil defense program serving those who lost their homes in the bombings. It grew throughout the UK and hit the United States in 1954. Literally, hundreds of millions of meals are delivered yearly in the US. Anna talks about the genesis story of the Fairfield County program and how many they are serving.

We may not realize the vast number of older adults who are aging in place because of this service. A meal is not just a tray being given out. It includes a visit from a volunteer to check on the senior, possibly a daily wellness check to ensure the senior is safe. It is a way to maintain good health. It may include referrals to other services.

The program includes a high level of socialization also. Seniors may receive meals delivered at their homes, or they can also eat with their friends here at the Senior Center. Those farther away can also meet at two different restaurants. Socialization is critical for aging in place. We certainly saw the issue arise during the pandemic lock-downs. Anna tells us more about the many services they offer that bring seniors together.

Volunteers are a critical resource for every nonprofit. But also volunteering brings so much to the volunteer, not just the agencies and clients.

There are so many other services they provide. We delve into services such as caregiving, representative payee services, home repairs, lifeline monitoring systems, homemaking, and Food 4 Paws.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.