Firsthand insight into senior’s services for better health and wellness

Judith Zelmanovits, left, shares her appreciation for Prince Edward Community Care for Seniors with Quinte Health President and CEO Stacey Daub and Meals on Wheels volunteer Maggie McDougall, at right. Their visit was part of the Hastings Prince Edward Ontario Health Team’s Walk a Mile initiative, which helps health system partners gain firsthand insight into community programs and services that support better health and wellness.

In December 2024, Ameliasburgh resident Judith Zelmanovits sustained a leg fracture while travelling in Mexico. Shortly after returning home, her husband George became ill, requiring surgery.

“I knew that we needed help to continue living at home independently, and my first call was to Prince Edward Community Care for Seniors to arrange Meals on Wheels,” said Judith. “They have been amazing, and I am grateful for all their services to help seniors live at home.

“I enjoy the hot, nutritious meals delivered to our door and we also keep a supply of the frozen meals handy. The regular delivery of meals provides peace of mind, and no matter how busy volunteer driver Maggie is with deliveries, she always makes time to check in and have a chat. That reassurance check is a vital part of the service. If I don’t answer the door for a scheduled meal, the Community Care for Seniors team follows up to make sure I’m safe.”

Volunteer driver Maggie McDougall originally connected with Community Care for Seniors through its website because she was interested in giving back to her community.

“I have enjoyed a variety of volunteer roles including grocery delivery, providing reassurance checks to isolated seniors, and Meals on Wheels delivery,” said McDougall. “These are such important services to support healthy aging and to help seniors live at home. I really like being a part of the team and connecting with the people on my route.”

As a partner in the Hastings Prince Edward Ontario Health Team, Quinte Health President and CEO Stacey Daub recently joined McDougall for her weekly Meals on Wheels delivery in Ameliasburgh, to meet some of the seniors who benefit from vital community care services.

“These programs play a crucial role in community well-being and patient recovery,” said Stacey. “Too often, patients stay in the hospital longer simply because they don’t know about available resources. Collaboration and awareness are key to ensuring people get the support they need to return home sooner. Hearing Judith’s story and meeting some of the dedicated volunteers who strengthen our community was truly inspiring.”

Prince Edward County has one of the highest senior populations in Ontario. Thanks to more than 400 dedicated Prince Edward Community Care for Seniors volunteers, a variety of essential services are available to help older adults live independently at home.

Last year, volunteers delivered 10,704 meals to Prince Edward County seniors. Beyond meals, Community Care for Seniors offers a range of services, including transportation, reassurance programs, foot care, grocery delivery, help with forms, homemaking and home maintenance, caregiver support, and virtual and in-person social activities.

To learn more, or to register for services, or programs of interest, call Community Care for Seniors at 613-476-7493 or visit www.communitycareforseniors.org