Eating well and getting the right nutrients is an important part of being healthy at any age, but it is more important for those over 65.
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To assist people in staying healthy, Wagga Meals on Wheels delivers meals to people who are over 65 and younger people with disabilities (and their carers) who would like the choice of healthy meals.
Meals delivered by Meals on Wheels follow the National Meal Guidelines.
The guidelines cover the different nutritional needs for older people, includes recipes modified to suit the older population and helps prevent malnutrition.
The National Meal Guidelines were developed by the Australian Meals on Wheels NSW in partnership with the Smart Foods Centre at the University of Wollongong.
"The health of our elderly is very important," Wagga Meals on Wheels manager Julie Logan said.
"Our meals are made to high standards meeting all guidelines in an effort to prevent unnecessary hospitalisation and to prevent frailty due to malnutrition.
"It is also a fact that eating good nutritious food regularly improves mental and physical health. We keep the best food available and with funding from the federal government we keep our prices to a minimum so the service is accessible.
"The flexibility of the menu and delivery choices speaks to the fact that there is something on the menu for all tastes."
Wagga Meals on Wheels provides a vital service by delivering to more than 160 people in the region, ensuring they have a healthy meal as often as they need.
The service is flexible with the day and frequency of meals chosen by the recipient.
The deliveries wouldn't be possible without the dedication of more than 80 volunteers in Wagga.
Not only do they physically deliver meals but they also check in with the client.
"They are another person for the client to interact with," Ms Logan said.
"They keep an eye on whether the person is eating their meals, if the client has had a fall or is not feeling well and if there is a need further assistance, such as more frequent deliveries or heating the meal for them to make sure they are eating.
"Or when necessary, we contact the family to advise them of our concerns."
For more information call (02) 6921 2205.
