The winds of change blowing through the non-profit sector are the evivalent of a hurricane. Budget cuts to meal programs for the elderly have resulted in a change of menu that only an anorexic could love. As of today, the delivery of a single hot meal by a friendly, familiar face will be replaced with frozen dinners that arrive a few times during the work week. While this may sound like a viable solution to some accountants in their 30’s, it is cause for alarm to anyone who has ever dealt with an Alzheimer’s patient or mobility impaired octogenarian.
For several years, I’ve volunteered with Caring Community, an organization near the NYU campus, that assists senior citizens in a variety of ways, including “friendly visits” and a daily hot meal program. As a New York Cares team leader I’ve mobilzed legions of volunteers on Saturday mornings and holidays to pack a nutritious early dinner for the elderly. The warm entree and a side of fresh perishables, including milk, juice and bread, was the least of what we provided. Most of us signed up because we understood the importance of a few minutes of entertaining conversation with each lonely client. We were the eyes and ears of the organization. We reported back to the social workers at Caring Community if we noticed anything odd, like a client with slurred speech or a bad smell in an apartment.
Many clients do not own a microwave oven. Those with vintage pacemakers powering their hearts still use an old school stove. Anyone with dementia probably should not be cooking with gas. Theoretically, everyone should have a home attendant. However, not all home attendents work weekends or full days. Some clients only receive help for a random 4 or 5 hours a day. I’m willing to predict that some clients will cook 3 meals on Friday then go hungery until Monday.
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