The Baltimore County Department of Aging is Expanding Food Distribution for Seniors
With stay-at-home orders in effect and supply chain issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many seniors are finding it challenging to keep their kitchen shelves and refrigerators stocked with ample healthy food. Avila Home Care would like to share information with seniors and their loved ones about services that might be helpful.
The Baltimore County Department of Aging is expanding its food distribution efforts by providing boxes of food for older adults ages 60 and older. Under this new program, each box of food will include three meals and a snack for six days. When combined according to the directions, each meal meets the nutritional requirements for adults age 60 and older.
Boxes will be distributed BY APPOINTMENT ONLY at three senior center locations in three different regions of Baltimore County. Baltimore County residents over 60 years of age should call 410-887-2040 to schedule their pick-up time, date and location (if the senior is homebound and a caregiver is picking up food, let them know). During the appointment, individuals will be asked to show proof of age through their BCDA Senior Center Card OR other identification. Anyone unable to travel to these locations should contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) at 410-887-2594 to discuss other food options with staff.
In addition to the three pickup points, the Baltimore County Department of Aging can do a free delivery (via County Ride) of free staple foods to seniors who are down to their last food supply. Seniors or their caregivers would simply call the MAP number (410-887-2594) to sign up.
Meals on Wheels has expanded the types of services they offer during the pandemic. To sign up for Meals on Wheels, call 410-558-0827. Meals on Wheels is also offering to have volunteers pick up and deliver groceries for free, as long as the senior purchases the groceries via their credit card or EBT card. For that service, please contact Katia Jones at Meals on Wheels at 443-573-0933.
Avila Home Care caregivers can help their clients and loved ones order food online and pick up the food for them, or go grocery shopping for them and deliver it to their homes. Avila’s caregivers have been trained in special precautions to take, and are required by Avila to wear facemasks when with clients, and masks and gloves when shopping. If you are currently an Avila Home Care client or would like more information about Avila and the services we offer, please call 410-826-6100.
Preparing Healthy Meals While Aging in Place
Proper nutrition is important at all stages of life, but especially for senior citizens, for whom eating well can mean better health, mitigation of chronic ailments and overall longevity. Here, the aging-in-place specialists at Avila Home Care details ways for seniors to create healthy and delicious meals. Increase Hydration As we age, our body has…
Read More...Mental Health Concerns in Seniors are Under-Diagnosed
Studies have shown that seniors are less likely to be diagnosed—and consequently, treated—for mental health problems, even though this is an acute concern for aging populations. Here, the elder care providers at Avila Home Care discuss this issue and best practices for ensuring the senior in your life is getting the care they need. Mental…
Read More...Aging in Place and Owning a Pet
As you age, it can become harder to stay social and active. Decreased mobility and independence can be frustrating for seniors and lead to loneliness, isolation and even depression. However, studies have shown that owning a pet as a senior can provide both mental and physical health benefits. Here, the home care professionals at Avila…
Read More...