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Accessing nutritious, healthy and affordable foods may seem like an impossible endeavor for older adults who have limited income or transportation options to access the grocery store.  Often there are resources throughout your community to assist with these challenges.  The Nutrition Program through Aging & In-Home Services strives to address problems of food insecurity, promote socialization, and promote the health and well being of older adults through nutrition and nutrition-related services.

• Meals on Wheels/Home Delivered Meals – Individuals who receive this service are homebound and receive meals right to their door step. Depending on a client’s needs, they may receive diabetic-friendly or low sodium meals to ensure they are receiving their recommended nutrients. All meals are reviewed by a registered dietician and meet the minimum recommended dietary allowances for older adults.
• Congregate Dining – Individuals who receive this service are able to safely meet at a designated location daily Monday through Friday to receive a hot lunch and enjoy socialization amongst their peers. Just like the Meals on Wheels/Home Delivered Meals clients, each person’s meals are individualized to their unique dietary requirements. Congregate Dining promotes nutrition while reducing senior isolation.
• Restaurant Vouchers – Individuals who receive this service are community-dwelling and are still safely driving. These clients are provided vouchers that act as payment for a meal at one of the approved restaurants throughout our service area. At each location, there is a special menu that has been reviewed and approved by a registered dietician to ensure these seniors are receiving their recommended nutrients. Restaurant Vouchers act as nutrition and social support, but also provide these individuals with familiarization to the rest of our services should they need them in the future.

Each of these programs has its own set of eligibility requirements. If you or a loved one is struggling to eat healthy meals, or if you would like to learn more about our Nutrition Program, Just Call Us! 260-469-3036

Despite this desire, the reality of aging brings along challenges we haven’t had to face before. Chores like cleaning, cooking and laundry are threatened due to decreased mobility as our bodies age. And, more personal aspects of daily living like bathing and dressing may get more difficult depending on the layout and accessibility of certain areas of our homes. Fortunately, there are many ways to support an older loved one who wishes to age in place.

Noticing changes in your aging loved one is common but addressing those changes may cause stress for both you and them. Discussing changes in an individual’s behavior, appearance, health, etc. can be embarrassing for both parties. And, some may even be reluctant to listen to begin with as they fear losing their independence. Ironically, acknowledging these changes is a crucial first step in preserving the independence of an older adult.

If you notice a loved one showing one or more of these signs, don’t panic! It is time to discuss these changes with your loved one. Include others in the conversation who may assist with the care of your loved one. We know – this may sound difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

If your loved one is resistant to the idea of getting help, don’t give up! The safety and well-being of your loved one needs to be at the forefront of any conversation. Remember, it is normal for individuals to be defensive if they feel challenged in any way. If there is not an immediate sign of danger to cause harm to themself or anyone else, try again. Sometimes a person will refuse care at first but over time they may accept help.

If your loved one continues to resist care, it may be time to seek help for yourself. Ask their doctor, clergy or other trusted outside person to step in and assist you. Sometimes a person from outside the family will have more influence.

Remember, your concerns may help address issues that interfere with your loved ones independence before a catastrophic event takes place. If you need assistance getting these conversations started, Just Call Us! Aging & In-Home Services is the premier resource for older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers. Our Aging & Disability Resource Center provides streamlined access to information, care options, short-term case management, and benefits enrollment across a spectrum of long-term care services and supports.