For Raleigh County senior residents like Dolly Weidensall, winter weather is more than an inconvenience; it can mean isolation.
“I haven’t been able to get out on account of the ice. I was in for ten days,” Weidensall said. “Today’s my first day out.”
Tammy Trent, Assistant Executive Director with the Raleigh County Commission on Aging says the recent ice and snow have kept many elderly residents homebound, unable to get groceries or medication.
“We don’t want any of them to fall or break a hip”, Trent said. “… a lot of them have no means to get out, even to get groceries. So it’s very important if you have a neighbor that’s elderly to call them, see if there’s anything you can pick up for them or do something for them.”
The Commission on Aging delivers meals to nearly 200 seniors three times a week. Neighbors can also assist in a big way, especially because some seniors are reluctant to ask for help.
“I like to do everything on my own. I’m very independent,” Weidensall explained. “I just say I don’t need anything, whether I need it or not.”
That independence can become dangerous during severe weather, and even as independent as Weidensall is, she realizes a simple check-in can make a big difference:
“Just make sure that you call and check on them. If you can’t get to their house, come by their house and check on them,” said Weidensall. “…because not everybody gets out to the grocery store and is ready for something like this.”
Applications are open for Raleigh County Commission on Aging’s meal delivery program. Seniors must be 60 or older and unable to prepare meals for themselves. The Commission conducts home assessments and currently has a short waiting list.
“Seniors need to know they are cared for…” Trent emphasized. “We can try to get as much as we can to them. Even food banks are open right now. That could help…”
The Raleigh County Commission on Aging can be reached at 304-255-9445. Anyone needing assistance can also dial 2-1-1 to be connected with additional community resources.
