NIAGARA network
immediate area there are nearly a dozen. Connecting older adults to
a community service organization, such as a senior center, will help
to keep you healthy, independent and young at heart.
Help For Homebound Seniors
For many seniors, winter months make it even more difficult
if not impossible to get out of their homes, even for necessities.
Last year, Meals On Wheels Erie delivered over 95,000 hot,
nutritious meals to home bound seniors, allowing them to remain
independent and in their own homes. Beginning in 2015, the
agency expanded by launching their Grocery Shopping and
Delivery Service. Meals On Wheels Erie now includes hot, homedelivered meals plus home delivered groceries. Shut-ins can choose
the assistance they need. For instance, many home bound seniors
and persons with disabilities want to cook for themselves but have
a difficult time getting fresh groceries. Meals On Wheels Erie solves
that problem. To learn more about the program, or the opportunity
to volunteer, please call 452-6930.
Be a Good Neighbor
If you have elderly neighbors, there are many things you can do
to help them through the colder months. Many of us believe in
a “pay it forward” philosophy. During the winter season consider
ways in which you might positively impact the life of seniors in your
communities. Whether you are a high school student, baby boomer
or a fellow senior, there are many small acts of kindness that would
be so meaningful in letting a senior know they aren’t forgotten.
• Baking cookies or cooking dinner? Drop off a batch or a meal
to an elderly neighbor.
• Going to church? Offer to provide a ride for a senior.
• Shoveling your walk? Shovel their walk as a surprise.
• Student needing a community service project? Organize
students to “visit a senior” once a week.
• Holiday meal at your place? Include your elderly neighbor.
• One small errand as simple as picking up a quart of milk when
you are doing your own shopping keeps someone feeling
connected.
Staying Fall Free this Season
To prevent falls in the home, make sure pathways are clutter
free. Use nightlights throughout your home. It is important to wear
footwear and clean spills up immediately. Proper use of assistive
devices such as a cane or walker is important to prevent falls. Install
grab bars around your tub and toilet for safety with daily tasks.
Hydration is very important to reduce your risk for falls. Winter is
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