Caregivers: We’re here for you

Caregivers are everywhere in our community and provide support in ways that are sometimes unseen. They may be professionals or may be a family member caring for a loved one. We at Meals on Wheels recognize that caregiving is hard work, and we’re here to help all who play this important role.

The most recent Caregiving in the United States Survey from AARP illustrates just how big a commitment caregiving can be for many Americans:

• 21.3 percent of U.S. adults identify as caregivers.
• The average caregiver spends 23.7 hours per week providing care for their loved one(s).
• 61 percent of caregivers are also working as they provide care.

Caregiving can be its own full-time job, rewarding and necessary as it may be. Part of our role at Meals on Wheels is to help all of those who are providing care for loved ones, especially when their availability may be limited due to other responsibilities.

Helping caregivers with meal prep

Meals on Wheels allows a respite from cooking responsibilities while providing nutritious and tasty meals. We also offer a variety of foods that might be difficult for a caregiver to prepare on their own while meeting recommended dietary guidelines for older adults.

Providing a social outlet

The volunteers who deliver meals provide a valuable social connection to the person receiving the meal. If a caregiver isn’t able to be home during the day, the delivery volunteer can offer an extra set of eyes when checking in with the person receiving the meals. Check out this video to see how Meals on Wheels helps with caregiving responsibilities for a Minneapolis couple.    

Flexible meal plans

If help is only needed on specific days, Meals on Wheels delivery is flexible. Meals can also be delivered frozen on a weekly basis to be reheated as needed. Meals are also available on a temporary basis if your loved is recovering from a hospital stay or illness. You can decide to cancel at any time.

Meals are priced affordably and assistance with the cost of meals is available for those who need it. Those who are able to cover the full cost of the meal are helping those who cannot. If Meals on Wheels can help with your caregiving needs, you can learn more and sign up here ama naga soo wac lambarka 612-623-3363.