Meal delivery programs for seniors are nothing new. Programs like Meals on Wheels have delivered food to seniors at home for decades. But COVID-19 has increased the need for meals delivered safely to seniors. Now California and other cities and counties are teaming up with local restaurants to meet the demand.

First in the Nation

In April, California Governor Gavin Newsom introduced a program called Great Plates Delivered. The program was implemented to help seniors 65 and older as well as seniors 60 to 64 who are at high risk if they contract COVID-19, were exposed to someone who has it, or has it already. The program provides up to three free nutritious meals a day delivered to the recipients. Meals are made and delivered by local restaurants and workers who are trying to survive in the pandemic.

California received funding for its Great Plates Delivered program through a partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program currently runs through September 9 because that is the original timeline that was set. The state plans to file an extension given that the pandemic is ongoing.

Seniors can apply for the program if they meet the age requirements, have an income not more than 600% of the federal poverty level, are not part of another nutrition program, cannot make their meals, and live alone or with another program eligible adult. Similar programs have been implemented in places like Lewis County, Washington and, Rochester, New York.

Highlighting the Importance of Senior Nutrition

As seniors age, their nutritional needs change which is why programs like meal delivery and other nutrition support options offered under insurance such as Medicare Advantage are so important. Supplemental benefits are also being extended to seniors who have just gotten out of the hospital or are recovering from a serious illness. Other insurance carriers have also started offering discounts to companies that offer healthy meals or meal preparation.

If you know someone who would benefit from home assistance for the elderly or meal preparation services for seniors in Newport Beach or Orange County, CA, get in touch with Optimal Care Solutions. Our team of senior care experts will be happy to walk you through our services.

Help At Home

Managing an aging in place loved one’s daily needs can be hard when you’re busy or live far away. When you need a hand, contact Optimal Senior Care Solutions. As a private family owned and operated agency, our fully licensed and insured caregivers will serve as an extended family in your senior’s home so they can continue aging comfortably in place right where they want to be.

Our highly trained aides can perform duties like light housekeeping, personal hygiene, meals, and companionship. And, all our family trusted in-home services can be personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! To learn more about Optimal Senior Care Solutions, or to schedule a FREE, in-home care consultation for a special senior in your life, please visit us online today.