LAIVES. There are fewer and fewer volunteers willing to offer part of their time in favor of the community, in this case to carry out a service of primary importance such as the delivery of home meals. The problem is raised by the case of a 95-year-old elderly man, resident in Laives, 100 percent disabled, suffering from a series of serious and disabling pathologies, including severe vascular dementia, who therefore requires continuous assistance, 24 hours on 24.
Unfortunately, the elderly person is the victim of the cuts made to the home meal delivery service due to the lack of volunteers. Together with the increasingly long waiting list, it led to a selection of users using precise criteria.
«For about 7 years – explains the daughter – my father has been using the home meal delivery service, obviously for a fee (12.10 euros per meal) and I must say that it has been a great help for me, also because I don’t live together. to him, but I follow him every day at lunchtime to relieve the caregiver. For years now, not only have I not taken a day off, but I can’t even give myself a whole day off because I have to be present 7 days a week. Furthermore, I always have to have my phone nearby both day and night because any health or other circumstances arise, I must intervene.”
«Recently from the Laives social district they informed me that there are few volunteers available in the face of a long waiting list and for this reason they decided to take away the meal from my father in order to give it to others, “because my father always has someone and there are many lonely elderly people who have no one.” It is obvious that a 95 year old person cannot be left alone and I know for a fact that there are elderly people with a carer who still receive meals at home. I was told that the caregiver is not a family member and that my father is lucky enough to have me. I felt cheated. Meals were the only help I could count on. I believe that a social service cannot expect to be able to rely exclusively on volunteers to deliver meals.
The population is increasingly ageing, it would be appropriate for those in charge to hire more staff. There is a lot of talk about aid for families, but if this is aid, we are poor. I am very saddened, I kept my father in his home knowing that it was his great desire, also knowing that it would have been a sacrifice for me but, I never would have thought that the so-called “Social Services”, which are supposed to help, could come to certain decisions , in my opinion senseless. Following my complaints, and after in-person contact at the District, as an alternative to the “meals on wheels” service, I was offered the opportunity to participate with him in the Alzheimer Caffè once a week.”
How can communities better recognize and support caregivers for the elderly?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Elder Care Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re addressing a critical issue facing our elderly population, particularly with home meal delivery services. Joining us is Dr. Emilia Rossi, a gerontologist and expert in elder care management. Dr. Rossi, thank you for being here.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. It’s an important topic, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss it.
Editor: Recently, we heard a poignant case from Laives about a 95-year-old man who, despite being 100% disabled and suffering from severe health issues, had his meal delivery service cut due to a lack of volunteers. What does this situation reveal about the state of volunteerism in elder care today?
Dr. Rossi: It underscores a troubling trend. Many communities are experiencing a decline in volunteers, which is partly due to the pandemic, shifting social dynamics, and the increased demands on people’s time. Volunteers are essential for services like meal delivery, but the reality of fewer volunteers means that vulnerable individuals, like this elderly man, may suffer.
Editor: The daughter of the elderly man expressed concern over how the cuts were justified by the service prioritizing “lonely elderly people” over those with caregivers. What do you make of these criteria?
Dr. Rossi: It highlights an ethical dilemma in elder care. While it’s important to help those who are alone, we must consider the holistic needs of the elderly. In this case, the care he receives from his daughter does not negate his vulnerabilities. Elderly individuals often need additional support, regardless of family involvement. It’s a complex balancing act.
Editor: What are some potential solutions to address the shortage of volunteers in services like these?
Dr. Rossi: There are several strategies we can employ. One is community engagement—encouraging local organizations, schools, and businesses to participate in volunteer programs. Creating flexible volunteer opportunities that accommodate different schedules can also help. Additionally, leveraging technology could facilitate remote support for the elderly, allowing for more innovative forms of assistance.
Editor: The daughter mentions she has been tirelessly supporting her father, even without a day off. How can we better support caregivers in similar situations?
Dr. Rossi: Caregiver burnout is a significant concern. It’s essential for communities to recognize the value of caregivers and provide them with respite options. This could include support groups, access to mental health services, and practical support such as flexible meal delivery or respite care. Policies mandating time off and professional support can also help caregivers recharge.
Editor: It seems clear that everyone has a role to play—from volunteers to support systems for caregivers. What message do you think we should take away from cases like the one in Laives?
Dr. Rossi: The message is clear: we need to prioritize our elderly community members and the caregivers who support them. By fostering a culture of volunteerism and community support, we can ensure that no elderly person feels abandoned or neglected, regardless of their circumstances. It’s about building a community that cares for all its members.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights on such a pressing issue. It’s clear that stronger community ties and support systems can make a significant difference in the lives of both the elderly and their caregivers.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for bringing attention to this vital subject. Together, we can create solutions that benefit everyone.