Spring is in the air, and the fresh scent of trees budding and tulips blooming reminds us that summer is near. Summer, filled with family cookouts, beach breaks, and fun in the sun, is anything but fun for our homebound older adults.
For them, there is no break from isolation and loneliness, and the need for nutritious meals and human connection never stops.
The heat combined with a lack of regular nutritious meals can be dangerous for older adults, resulting in dehydration and other health complications.
For Dorothy, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet is particularly important.
Originally from Taiwan, Dorothy came to the United States as a young woman looking for a better life, leaving behind her parents and brother.
Not long after arriving, she met her husband. With him, and her daughter who soon followed, she built a home, was active in her church, and maintained cherished elements of her Taiwanese culture.
Today, As Dorothy battles cancer, even simple daily tasks like preparing meals and maintaining a neat home have become a challenge.
“Meals on Wheels is a gift from God,” Dorothy says. “I was having trouble preparing my own meals and cleaning up afterward. The meals make life much easier and they’re good. I look forward to the different meals they bring.”
For Dorothy’s daughter, who lives more than an hour away, Meals on Wheels offers peace of mind, knowing her mother is safe, nourished and cared for.
“My daughter is grateful for Meals on Wheels too,” Dorothy says. “She knows I’m okay.”
Dorothy’s delivery driver, John, is key to her wellbeing. He doesn’t just deliver food each day, he also makes sure she is safe and happy at home.
“He’s wonderful,” she says with a smile on her face. “He checks on me and I always look forward to seeing him.”
With her husband gone, Dorothy leans on support from Meals on Wheels and treasured time with her two granddaughters, ages 8 and 12, so she never feels alone. She has the strength to occasionally attend church service, where she finds great comfort and enjoys reading and singing.
Hunger doesn’t take a vacation, and neither do we! Thank you for being part of what makes Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland that reliable source of nourishment and peace of mind we all crave.