Why It Matters Beyond Meals
Health & Safety Monitoring
- Volunteers aren’t just delivering food—they provide essential wellness checks.
- One in four seniors (65+) fall each year; without daily contact, falls can go unnoticed for days, resulting in costly hospital stays and rehabilitation.
- Population note: ~25% of Brevard’s residents are 65+.
Emotional Well-being
- Regular visits help reduce isolation and decline in mental health.
- Seniors report feelings of abandonment and anxiety when support disappears.
Additional Statistics
- 1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ falls each year (CDC).
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in adults 65+ (National Council on Aging).
- 95% of hip fractures are caused by falls (CDC).
- After one fall, ~60% of seniors will fall again within 12 months.
(Source: Rubenstein et al., Clin Geriatr Med, 2002) - Studies show 27% to 35% recurrence within 6 months in various populations.
(Source: Deandrea et al., 2010 systematic review, Age and Ageing)
Outcomes After A Fall & Economic Ripple Effect
- Broken hips (95% fall-related), wrist, spine fractures.
- Head injuries — especially risky on anticoagulants.
- “Long lie” complications: infections, hypothermia, pressure sores, muscle atrophy, dehydration, and even death within days.
- Psychological effects: fear of falling, depression, reduced social activity.
- With over 500 on the Meals on Wheels waiting list and 1 out of 4 suffering a fall:
- Recovery costs would be ~$30,000 per hospitalization and Medicare spends ~$3.75 million annually on falls, far exceeding the $500,000 vetoed (7.5 times higher).