Meals on wheels services
It has been reported that 46,000 elderly people have had their meals on wheels services axed. Meals On Wheels delivery fresh meals to older people who choose to live independently. The meals are delivered direct to their door for older people or disabled people. Many depend on the Meals On Wheels services to be able to continue living in their own homes, rather than moving into a residential care home.
The analysis of official data is from Malnutrition Task Force, who are an independent group of experts in health, social care and local government. They aim to prevent malnutrition in elderly people and are backed by the charity Age UK and others.
Last 3 years cut backs
This number of people going without the meals on wheels services has increased over the last three years. This is due to Government cuts that have seen many people robbed of this service.
Analysis of official data for England shows the number of people receiving meals has fallen from 75,885 in 2010/2011 to 29,605 in 2013/14. Spending on meals on wheels for people aged 65 and over has fallen 47%, from £42.1 million in 2010/11 to £22.3 million in 2013/14. – BT
You can read the full article via BT.
Long term concerns
This news is very concerning considering the number of elderly people being admitted to hospital with malnutrition, is rising.
In the last year, admissions for malnutrition were highest in the 50 to 59 age group for women and the 60 to 69 age group for men. – BT
The Meals On Wheels services were one way to help the elderly eat three nutritious meals everyday, preventing malnutrition. Good meals can provide the elderly with the energy to keep fit and healthy, especially this time of year.
Figures from Age UK have shown that there are roughly 300,000 people over the age over 65 in England who need help with their eating.
