What is one way to help older adults live independently?   MEALS ON WHEELS (MOW)!!   Have you considered MOW for you, your aging parent, or a loved one?

I know our family has and it all started in 1996 when my grandmother (maternal) was diagnosed with kidney failure. At the age of 75 years old, dialysis treatment (three times a week, four hour each session) left her very weak causing mobility challenges. She couldn’t stand on her feet too long and the medicine she was taking mostly made her sick. What was once a simple task preparing a meal for my grandfather and her was now a monumental task. As a result, our family banded together and decided to request MOWs to deliver to my grandparents who lived in rural Mississippi. MOW was a lifesaver! Unfortunately, in 2001, my grandmother passed away from kidney failure. Yet, I will never forget how grateful they were for those meals delivered three times a week.  Not to mention, MOW continued to deliver meals to my grandfather as the surviving spouse until his passing in 2004.

What is MOWs and exactly what do they do?

MOW provides home-delivered meals to older adults who are considered “home bound” and cannot shop for themselves or who have difficulty preparing meals. MOW operates in virtually every community in America through their network of more than 5,000 independently-run local programs. While the diversity of each programs services and operations may vary based upon the needs and resources of their communities, they are all committed to one goal— supporting older neighbors to live healthier and more nourished lives in their own homes.

How did MOW start?

The first MOW program actually started during World War II in Great Britain. After the German bombing campaign known as the “Blitz,” a group called the Women’s Volunteer Service for Civil Defense organized meal delivery to people who had lost their homes or who were in need of assistance.

Yet, in the United States, the first MOW program began in 1954 in Philadelphia. A social worker named Margaret Toy, of Philadelphia’s Lighthouse Community Center, developed a program for home bound adults. Most of the volunteers were high school students who were nicknamed “platter angels” and they would deliver food to the elderly in Philadelphia. The MOW program was formally established after the Older Americans Act was signed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965.

Who can qualify for MOW?

  1. Generally, programs serve adults 60 and over although the age requirements can vary by programs and areas served.
  2. Must have diminished mobility making it hard to shop for food, prepare meals or socialize with others.

Most MOW programs begin the process through an application, which may lead to an assessment of the need for meals and other supportive services. Some programs may additionally require a referral letter from the doctor or social worker. Contact your local program to find out how to get the ball rolling at www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org

 
The Core Functions of MOW

  • Nutritious Meal
  • Friendly Visit
  • Safety Check

It’s More than Just a Meal! For many seniors, the trusted new volunteer or staff member who shows up everyday with a hot meal and a smile is the only person they see or speak with all day. Aging comes with the inevitable increased risks of medical emergencies, falls, and other accidents. The safety check that accompanies each meal delivery ensures that, in the case of an emergency or problem, medics will be called and families will be notified.  The sad thing is that most of them die alone. 

Making a Difference!

MOW is currently helping nearly 2.5 million older adults annually in virtually every community in the country.

Ways to Take Action with MOW

  • Volunteer
  • Donate
  • Advocate
  • Shop for Products

The way I take action is showing my appreciation to MOW by volunteering as a driver. In fact, today is my Friday to deliver meals and I look forward to contributing to their mission of “dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation!”  Jeffery’s Catering is one of many strategic partners with MOW who prepares and donates meals. 

  
 
For more information on MOW, please visit: www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org.  Remember, we all will continue to age so it is important to understand the programs that are being offered for older adults. Discover the ways to get involved and/or help you, your aging parent or loved one!!

 

*Resources: The Golden Gazette, Meals on Wheels of America