Too proud for that

When speaking to the family member of a potential client, the suggestion was made that the older person would benefit from receiving either hot or frozen Meals on Wheels. The answer was “oh no, he’s too proud for that.”

A common misconception is that when one accepts assistance from an agency like Community Care for Seniors that they’re heading down the slippery slope to being dependent on others for everything. Let’s think about this concept of “independence”.

At any age, people have a network of people to help them. Adolescents have their parents, teachers and friends. Heading off to college or university, the young person lets go of the support from their parents and makes friends in their new location. Pregnant couples and young mothers join parenting groups to share and learn from each other. There are support groups and clubs to join for those with common interests or common challenges.

The aging person cannot possibly do everything by themselves, for themselves. Someone else needs to climb the 40′ ladder to repaint the peak of your home. Younger arms will need to shovel the snow. Someone who can cook will replace the person who always cooked for you. And, yes, often the people who step in are friends and family. In Prince Edward County, it might even be your neighbour who shovels your walk.

When you need it, though, there are caring volunteers who have chosen to give their time to the agency we call Community Care for Seniors, and they will deliver a hot meal to your home. Or, if you’d rather, they will deliver frozen meals to your home. Of course, your son or daughter will bring you food. You could give them a small break, however, and arrange to have your food delivered by someone else. Isn’t that what it means to be “independent”? We think so.

Pride should not stand in your way of maintaining your independence. If you need some help, call Community Care and ask what we can do to help you remain living in your home. That’s what our caring volunteers have been doing for the last 46 years, helping seniors live at home.

It isn’t asking for assistance that will send you down the slippery slope toward dependency, it’s pride. Your reluctance to reach out can make you become more dependent in the long run. Don’t wait, call today, 613-476-7493.

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes