During the COVID-19 quarantine, many families of senior adults are concerned for their loved ones. As the world hunkers down to flatten the curve, the coronavirus spread has created global shortages.
From food to household supplies, medication to masks, shortages have created unique challenges for older Americans and their caregivers. As seniors, many of whom were already somewhat isolated, face further isolation as well as food insecurity, food delivery services, and nutrition programs become crucial.
Public policy is designed to protect employees, consumers, volunteers, and communities, particularly those at greater risk of contracting coronavirus. The policies have created new challenges for seniors and caregivers in relation to food access and nutrition, but there are a number of options which can help while maintaining minimal to no contact.
Grocery Delivery Services
In light of the coronavirus outbreak, many grocery stores and big box stores, are expanding delivery services to help individuals follow social distancing requirements. Most retailers who provide food, as well as household supplies, are offering pick-up and delivery (often contactless) options for seniors and others who need to limit exposure due to underlying medical conditions.
Grocery delivery can provide prepared foods, as well as meal kits, to help seniors get the nutrition they need to stay healthy. Prior to ordering from any grocery delivery service, seniors and caregivers should confirm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety protocols are being followed.
The following are helpful grocery delivery services, but please keep in mind you and your loved one should still practice and follow all the pandemic guidelines:
Seniors’ Food Assistance Programs and Nutrition Benefits
For senior adults living independently, grocery delivery and meal delivery services can help them stay home and out of harm’s way during the pandemic, while easing the burden on caregivers and family members. But, for seniors living on a fixed or limited income, they may prove to be too costly and even cause greater financial hardship. For those individuals, there are a number of resources available which can provide not only low-cost or free meals, but also transportation, shelf-stable grocery items, and even monetary assistance and more:
- Meals-on-Wheels America offers home meal delivery that is free or requires only a small fee based on the individual’s ability to pay.
- Feeding America can help seniors and their caregivers find local food banks and pantries, many of which are offering drive-thru and curbside pick-up now.
- SNAP helps seniors supplement their grocery budget through a monetary benefit available when they meet asset and income limits.
- Area Agencies on Aging can help with senior benefit resources at the federal, state, and local levels, as can Benefits Check Up by the National Council on Aging.
If You Need Assistance in Caring for Your Loved Ones During the Pandemic
If you need assistance caring for your loved ones and helping them get the food, supplies, and nutrition they need during the coronavirus pandemic, Jewish Family Home Care can help keep your loved ones properly cared for and protected.
Please contact us at Jewish Family Home Care, the top provider of home care in Tamarac & nearby areas, where our caregivers are ready to help you provide the best care for your loved ones during the shelter in place orders brought on by the coronavirus outbreak.