We all know that the wonderful volunteers delivering nutritious meals play a vital role in helping to keep senior Australians healthy by ensuring they are eating well. 

But Meals on Wheels means so much more.

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Federal Minister for Aged Care and Indigenous Health, The Hon. Ken Wyatt AM, MP has called on all Australians to recognise the work of Meals on Wheels volunteers across Australia. 

Mr Wyatt said the service provides not only meals, but social interaction. 

“Within my own electorate and in communities I visit across the nation, so many people tell me that Meals on Wheels is the best thing that has happened to them,” he said. 

“This is not just because of the meals they receive, but because they look forward to the social interaction – someone, for instance, taking the time to ask how their day has been.

“This is all the more important for senior Australians who may be living alone and who may be lonely. 

“This is all the more important in light of recent research by a major Australian aged care provider that found between 60 and 70 per cent of home care clients experienced loneliness.”

Mt Wyatt said however, it’s more than just companionship. 

“As well as dropping meals and engaging in friendly banter, Meals on Wheels volunteers can be the first people on the scene in times of need,” he said. 

“I know of an instance when a Meals on Wheels volunteer visited the home of an elderly women who had broken her hip and was unable to get to a phone to call for assistance. 

“And then there are the many times when Meals on Wheels volunteers provide a level of support and care to our senior Australians who have mental health issues.

“Too often, we take for granted that people are well when in fact there is a real need for someone to ask if they are feeling okay.

“I have always greatly respected Meals on Wheels volunteers for the compassion and care they show to the people they deliver meals to.”