March for Meals On Wheels

On March 22, 1972, President Richard Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 and established a national nutrition program for adults 60 years and older. For nearly 50 years, this critical program – commonly referred to as Meals On Wheels – has delivered more than just nutritious meals to homebound older adults, in virtually every community across the country. The dedicated staff and volunteers who deliver these meals each week provide a vital lifeline and connection to the community as well as check on their health and safety. The safety check has become part of the delivery process by offering reminders to take medications, check blood sugar levels and most importantly, be sure there hasn't been a fall. The past year, personal care items has been added to deliveries as needed. This is often all it takes to keep older adults in their home where they want to be.

Horizons' Meals On Wheels started delivery in the Cedar Rapids area in 1964. Though the mission has remained the same, there have been many changes. Each year there is an increase in the number of meals delivered. The older adult population has grown seventeen percent in the past decade and by 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or older. That is why it is now imperative plans are being made for the future.

Let's talk about how aging affects our society. Societal aging affects patterns of work and retirement, the way that families interact, the ability for governments and communities to provide adequate resources for older adults, and the threat of chronic illness. Does it affect economic growth? The answer is yes. An aging population and slower labor force growth can affect economies in many ways-the growth of GDP slows, working-age people will pay more to support the elderly, and public budgets will be strained under the burden of the higher total cost of health care, retirement programs and long-term care for older adults. Even now, Horizons struggles to cover the costs for the one thousand meals served each day. Funding remains flat but the need continues to rise. That is why it is so important to have financial support from the federal government to our local cities and counties. The amazing donations received from faithful private donors and local businesses is indeed a blessing.

Meals On Wheels of America programs have come together each March since 2002 to celebrate proven collaboration of local community organizations, businesses, all levels of government and compassionate individuals to ensure that our older adults are not forgotten. March for Meals On Wheels is celebrated the entire month of March nationwide. Horizons will be calling on our city and county leaders to deliver meals on any Tuesday or Wednesday in March. Special routes will be created so the full delivery experience can be enjoyed but also be mindful of busy schedules. Volunteering doesn't stop there. We are inviting anyone who wants to have a positive experience to go to www.horizonsfamily.org/volunteer By volunteering, donating or speaking out, you can ensure the older adults in your neighborhood can live healthier, independent lives in their homes. The 18,533 hours volunteered last year saved Horizons $433,861.

Lastly, think about an older adult that you know who would benefit from home delivered meals. The only qualification is to be 60 years old. The meals are tasty and well-balanced but the visit from the volunteer is truly the icing on the cake!

Kay Fisk is the vice president of Advocacy & Donor Relations at Horizons, A Family Service Alliance, and an older adult.