Resources For Aging Well

It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest  Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.

As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.

On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.

OverviewWatching a parent struggle with depression is a profoundly emotional experience. It can make you feel helpless, sad, angry, and confused. Parental depression, especially in aging parents, is complex and can be difficult to deal with, especially if youre the sole caretaker. Fortunately, there are meaningful steps you can take to support a parent through their depression while also prioritizing your own mental health. Having a plan in place can help you identify the signs, offer the right support, and foster hope for recovery. Keep reading to learn more if your dad or mom is depressed and you dont know how to help them.Recognizing the Signs of Depression in Aging ParentsThe Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that around 4% of people over 70 have depressive symptoms. However, depression in older adults is often mistaken for general aging or other physical health issues. Be on the lookout for the 10 signs your elderly parent needs help.Emotional and physical symptoms of depression in older parents include:Persistent sadness or hopelessnessWeeping or cryingLoss of interest in activities once enjoyedChanges in appetite or weightSleep disturbancesIncreased irritability or restlessnessFatigue or low energyDiscontentmentTrouble concentrating or making decisionsPhysical complaints with no clear causeSocial withdrawal or isolationExpressing feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessnessOther negative thoughtsApproach the Topic with Sensitivity and EmpathyTalking about mental health with parents requires sensitivity and empathy. Start the conversation in a safe and comfortable environment and choose a time when you wont be interrupted. Approach the topic with compassion so its easier for them to open up and share their feelings.Tips to frame the discussion:Start with care and concern: Use language like, Ive noticed youve been feeling down lately, and Im concerned about you.Avoid judgment or blame: Avoid saying things like, Youre being negative or Why are you so sad? which can put them on the defensive or make them feel guilty.Be a good listener: Let them express their feelings without interrupting, and dont try to fix the problem.Normalize their emotions: Tell them that depression is a common but treatable medical condition. Remind them that seeking help from a mental health professional is a sign of strength, not weakness.Encourage Professional HelpBe patient if your parent hesitates at first. Your dad or mom might need therapy and wont go, and gentle encouragement can make a difference. Offer to help them find and schedule appointments. Their primary care doctor will evaluate symptoms to rule out other physical causes before recommending treatment options (which might include seeing a therapist). Professional mental health support can be a game changer when managing depression.You can also explore solutions on your own:Therapists or counselors: A licensed therapist can help your parent work through their feelings and develop coping strategies to manage their depression.Support groups: Group therapy and community support groups are good ways to connect your parent with others who have similar challenges. This can be even more beneficial if their depression is related to isolation.Medicare or insurance coverage: If cost is a concern, remind your parent that online therapy covered by Medicare or other insurance plans is available, offering an accessible option for older adults.Expert InsightWatching a loved one go through depression can be too close for comfort. At times, it can be hard to know when might be the right time to step in to help or when you should give space. Phases of life changes can take a toll; how we manage stress and maintain health can truly impact how we cope emotionally. But, even in close-knit families, appearing vulnerable in front of our loved ones can be tough. Encouraging outside professional support can be a great suggestion. If it is done with care and kindness, one might be more inclined to consider it.Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, (LCSW-C), LICSW, MSWElizabeth KeohanExplore Treatment Options TogetherTreatment for depression often uses a combined approach. Therapy and medication can work together for the best outcome. Work with your parent and their doctor to explore the following options, but keep their comfort level and preference in mind.Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a very effective type of therapy for depression, used to treat the negative thought patterns common with this conditionMedication: Antidepressants can help manage symptoms, but its critical that any depression medication is taken as prescribed and your parent shares any side effects they experience.Support Healthy Lifestyle ChangesLifestyle factors play a role in depression management. Help your parent make small, gradual changes, without pressure, to enhance mood and increase energy levels.Promote regular physical activityPhysical activity doesnt have to be demanding. Low-impact, gentle exercises like walking, stretching, water aerobics, or chair yoga can effectively boost endorphins and help reduce symptoms of depression. Even gardening or practicing tai chi can be beneficial.Encourage a balanced dietA healthy diet supports physical and mental health and can improve energy levels. Incorporate foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables into their diet. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks to stabilize energy levels further.Find meaningful activities or hobbiesHobbies like knitting, painting, volunteering, or doing puzzles can be entertaining and stimulating while offering a sense of purpose. Help your parents get involved in social and recreational activitieseven small onesthat they enjoy to keep their minds and bodies busy.Encourage Social ConnectionsIsolation worsens depressive symptoms, so social interaction is a critical part of treatment. Social support is a key component of recovery. Since loneliness in retirement is incredibly common, look for ways to help your aging parent stay connected with others.You can consider having them:Reconnect with old friends: Encourage them to contact old friends and family members theyve lost touch with.Join community activities: Suggest they become active at local senior centers, book clubs, or church groups.Engage in family gatherings: Plan regular family get-togethers or video calls.Look After Your Own Well-beingAlthough you might be happy to do it, supporting a parent with depression can be taxing. Take care of yourself so you can remain energized and focused on helping when your dad or mom is depressed.Here are some ways you can manage your emotional health:Seek support: Talk to friends, family members, or a therapist about your feelings.Set boundaries: Recognize your limits and share them with others. If you need one day a week off or you want evening hours to yourself, dont feel guilty about it.Practice self-care: Do things that help you recharge and relax. Exercise, meditate, do yoga, work out, or do hobbies you enjoy.Expert InsightDepression is a burden, and it can feel that way too for close loved ones, who in their own way endure the weight of it. It can be very demanding, both emotionally and physically. While its hard to take steps to move through it, it is so important to prioritize self-care to navigate it. As a family member, it is critical, not only in terms of helping but also in terms of managing your own robust emotional strength. Find support, keep exercise in your repertoire, and for sure, as cliche as it is, remember that you cant pour from an empty cup. Maintain your own health to support in a proactive way versus a reactive way.Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, (LCSW-C), LICSW, MSWElizabeth KeohanMoving Forward with Patience and CompassionIf your father or mother is depressed, you need patience, empathy, and persistence to help them. Remember that progress may be slow, and the occasional setback is normal.Therapy can be a valuable resource that offers tools and coping strategies. Talkspace has convenient online therapy options covered by Medicare, so mental health support for aging parents and their families is accessible and affordable. Take the first step today and contact Talkspace to help your parent get online treatment for depression.See ReferencesDepression and agingHealthy Aging. September 3, 2024. Accessed November 20, 2024.Elizabeth KeohanLicensed Talkspace Therapist, Elizabeth Keohan has enjoyed working with clients in communities from Washington DC through rural Maine over the course of her career. While she has worked extensively with those experiencing anxiety and depression, she embodies a unique comfort working with the bereaved. Elizabeth combines a compassionate, holistic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT), to help clients counter their somatic response to stress, anxiety, mood, grief and loss.