ACT NOW TO HELP US REACH
MORE SENIORS IN NEED
OUR NATION’S SENIOR POPULATION IS GROWING AND CHANGING RAPIDLY.
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1 in 4 Americans
One in four Americans is 60+, with 12,000 more people turning 60 every day, the population is poised to reach 93 million in the next decade and 118 million by 2060, representing an increase of more than half in the number of seniors today.
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1 in 2 Seniors
Half of seniors living alone lack the income to cover basic needs. Seniors on fixed incomes are particularly vulnerable to rising inflation and cost of living.
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10 Million Seniors
About 10 million seniors face the threat of or suffer from hunger. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition due to factors such as reduced appetite, mobility challenges, prescription medications, and other issues.
THE IMPACT
One in three seniors live alone, and one in four experience feelings of loneliness. Many factors such as retirement, loss, mobility challenges, and declining health can lead to a shrinking social network for older adults. This leaves them increasingly reliant on others for support, yet they often have fewer people to turn to.
The impact of social isolation and loneliness on public health cannot be ignored. It can lead to anxiety, depression, cardiovascular issues, cognitive decline, and an overall decreased quality of life, particularly for homebound older adults. At Meals on Wheels, we understand the critical importance of addressing loneliness and social isolation. Research echoes what our programs have shown for decades: initiatives to foster social connections truly make a difference in the lives of meal recipients.
How We Started
Meals on Wheels America is the oldest and largest national organization supporting over 5,000 community programs that address senior hunger and isolation. Meals on Wheels Baldwin County is one of those 5,000 programs. Our organization was started in 1975 by the membership of Hope Lutheran Church. We have continued to grow, but we know we can do more with support from you and our community.
