Charlene is an incredibly independent 82-year-old mom, grandma and widow who has lived a full life, and has plans to keep that going strong. It’s a challenge, though, because as she ages, she faces more mobility limitations and increasing isolation from her beloved community and neighbors. It’s difficult to get along, homebound and alone, but she makes it work.

Without question, Charlene’s top strategy for extending her independence in the home that she loves so dearly is Meals on Wheels. Nourishment from regularly-delivered nutritious meals, social interactions with her long-time volunteer and even the bonus of free cat food for her pet kitty enable her to remain healthy and happy at home. 

“As long as I understand things and I can do for myself, I will be here. This is where all my children grew up. This is where I had a happy time with my husband. This is my home, my neighborhood.”

It’s not uncommon to see Charlene out on her porch – maintaining her long-held position as a steady and visible presence in her tightly-knit Maryland neighborhood.

“I have known people in this community since their childhoods. They’re like my brothers and sisters, really. And race or age, it doesn’t make any difference. We are a group of people who’ve lived here a long time and we all protect each other.”

Charlene relies on Meals on Wheels for more than the food and her independence, it’s also a source of human connection. The volunteers who deliver her meals also deliver a smile and a friendly hello – which is a vital component of maintaining both mental and physical health, especially for those who are homebound. Her volunteers recognize that, even though she is old, she is vibrant and engaging.

“Meals on Wheels brings me comfort. They’re very kind people. Dan (Charlene’s regular volunteer) is like one of my sons. He listens to me, and we laugh, and that helps me, because when you’re old, there aren’t too many things left to laugh about. Sometimes you’re sick or sometimes you’re depressed. He is always able to bring me out of it.”

Charlene’s children now live with their own families throughout the eastern United States. They stay in contact with her primarily via telephone and occasional visits. While leaving her home to live with one of them is an option, it is also one she does not want to be forced to take. She doesn’t want to disrupt the independence, autonomy and lifestyle she has lived for decades.

Another challenge is navigating travel in a wheelchair, which makes it impossible to go most places alone, including her monthly grocery store visit.

“When I do go out, I need help. I just can't walk out the door or jump in a car. Somebody needs to get my wheelchair, but I won't let anybody push me. I use my feet and grab items I can reach.” 

The most important thing to Charlene is to remain a member of her community and continue to live the independent life that makes her happy, and Meals on Wheels is helping her do just that.

“Having somebody come to your house and have compassion for you, I think it's wonderful. It seems like the Meals on Wheels folks were put on this Earth to take care of people. I love this home. I love this neighborhood and I’m very grateful that Meals on Wheels helps me stay.”