Baby boomers, people born after World War II whose parents are in their 70s and 80s or older, are in a unique position. Their children are in high school or college which puts demands on available time and cash; their parents live at home with them, or alone, or in elder care facilities, again putting demands on available time and cash; and many middle aged couples are employed in stressful dual careers that consume much of their time. With the happy advent of grandchildren, the mix of family responsibilities and career pressures can be very complicated.
There are more than 4,000 people over the age of 65 who live alone in the City of Alexandria. No matter what their housing situation may be, many of these senior residents are socially isolated, disabled or lonely, live on a low fixed income, or cannot go out due to mobility problems.
Alexandria Red Cross volunteers provide humanitarian and social support, social interaction, mental stimulation, and recreational programs to enhance the quality of life for many of these seniors. Sixty-five active Red Cross volunteers provide monthly support to about 400 seniors through various community service programs. These volunteers speak 18 languages and provide service to non-English speaking seniors in Alexandria.
Volunteers obtain prescription drugs and eye glasses, deliver donated furniture and household items, provide health and comfort items, transport seniors to medical appointments, help with shopping and other errands, and organize social and recreational events. Such group activities as bingo, movies, other entertainment, and classes in art and exercise are arranged at low income, senior housing facilities.
Information of interest to seniors, their adult children or others who care for them is readily available through the Alexandria Red Cross and includes such topics as: disaster preparedness; safety guides and home safety check lists; activities and social interaction suggestions that can help manage pain; food safety; how to prevent home fires; electrical safety; check lists for seniors with mobility problems; how to prevent falls and fractures; and crime prevention for seniors.
Briefly, home safety tips for seniors include: keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it; plan and practice a fire escape route; post “911” and other emergency numbers at each telephone; install and maintain smoke detectors; know how to stop, drop, and roll; smokers should use large, deep ashtrays; give space heaters plenty of space away from walls, furniture and combustibles; be careful cooking and use glove-like pot holders; learn to use all electrical appliances safely.
More information about the Alexandria Red Cross community services program is available at www.alexandriaredcross.org or call 703-549-8300.