on Wheels stresses need for volunteers to support seniors

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

The changes we undergo as we age are often viewed as physical. Our bodies change, mobility decreases and the things we used to love doing are sometimes things we just can’t do anymore. Most older Americans eventually need assistance, but what many aren’t talking about is the rising costs of aging, and how many older adults are struggling to make ends meet today.

According to Jan Mutchler, director of the Gerontology Institute, 2020 data show that nearly 5 million older women are living alone, 2 million older men live alone and more than 2 million older couples have incomes that make them economically insecure. The lasting effects of the pandemic and rising costs of living have exacerbated these numbers and contributes to increased isolation for many older adults.

Meals on Wheels of Solano County continues to rise to these challenges, providing nutrition services through home delivery and congregate dining, home-based fall prevention, case management and supplemental pet food.

Public response to Covid-19 resulted in many community members reaching out to help serve the increased needs of the older adult population. Many of our volunteers are seniors themselves and found it necessary to isolate at home and remain healthy. Now that businesses are back open or have returned to an in-office work environment, the number of volunteers has declined and we often find ourselves struggling to fill delivery routes.

With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer, but the benefits are far-reaching and the community needs you.

Last fiscal year, volunteers dedicated more than 7,000 hours of their time to ensure seniors receive nutritious meals from folks who generally care about their well-being. Volunteering is a great way to meet people who have a common interest in supporting individuals who are less fortunate, all while making a positive impact on the lives of others and contributing to the overall health of the community.

Join us in the fight against hunger and isolation. We can’t do it alone. You are the key to ensure that our senior neighbors are not forgotten about, left alone and hungry. Home delivered food is distributed Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and most routes can be completed in two hours or less. Grab a friend or a co-worker; we invite you to see the smiles, hear the voices and make connections with older adults in your community.

Call our volunteer coordinator at 707-425.0638, ext. 3 or visit https:// mealsonwheelssolano.org/volunteer. Together, we can deliver.