Natural Disasters Are Not the Only Cause of Crises

Recent natural disasters have propelled the plight of disadvantaged and impoverished populations into the national spotlight. Horrific images and stories of suffering flashed across our television screens, reminding us that our most vulnerable citizens- the poor, the sick, and the elderly, are most affected by such situations. Those without easy access to transportation, stable medical care, and strong family and social support systems shoulder a disproportionately high share of the burden in times of crisis. Here in New York, we are left wondering how our community would be able to evacuate, shelter, and care for our own vulnerable populations if such a disaster struck.

But the harsh truth is that it doesn’t take a hurricane or a natural disaster to create a crisis. Across the city, there are members of our community who suffer daily, unable to gain access to the most basic of human needs. The Carter Burden Center for the Aging works to bring aid to one of these most often neglected populations, the elderly.

The problems of the elderly – illness – memory loss – loneliness and isolation – depression – poverty – can overwhelm those least able to help themselves. For example, Milton, a homebound bachelor in his 70s, is confined to a wheelchair. He is practically a prisoner in his own home because he lives in a third-floor walk up. One of his neighbors contacted the Carter Burden Center and we were able to arrange for emergency food stamps and a daily hot luncheon meal delivered through our Meals-on-Heels program. We also found a doctor willing to come to Milton’s apartment to care for him. Then we arranged for a Carter Burden Center volunteer to take Milton out once in awhile, and spend time with him. Now we’re trying to find Milton a first-floor apartment so he can regain some independence.

Even those seniors who may have close family ties or stable living situations may find some of our programs invaluable. Pearl, a lifelong New Yorker, has remained in her Yorkville apartment while many of her friends have moved in with family or left the city. She eats dinner with her daughter’s family once a week, but was starting to feel lonely and isolated by her limited social circle. Her daughter visited the Carter Burden Center website and learned about our Cultural Connections program, which provides reduced price tickets to concerts, shows, and museum tours in the city. Pearl was initially hesitant about attending her first event, a Louie Armstrong tribute at Lincoln Center, but was amazed at the warm welcome she received. She now attends most of the Cultural Connections events with the new friends she has met- many of whom live in her neighborhood.

The Carter Burden Center literally saved the life of another frail senior: Dora, a homebound woman in her 80s had already had one heart attack. She was greatly assured by our daily check-in calls from volunteers. So when she didn’t answer her phone for three hours one day, we contacted her building’s superintendent and then a Carter Burden Center volunteer personally went over to Dora’s apartment to check on her. As too often happens to elders living alone, Dora had had another heart attack. The Carter Burden Center volunteer called 911 and got Dora the medical attention that saved her life.

There is a crisis situation, right here, right now, in your own neighborhood. There are thousands of elderly Upper East Side residents like Milton and Dora who live in poverty or are socially isolated and just don't know where to turn. By delivering meals, making home visits, providing opportunities for socialization, and addressing specific needs, we makes it possible for frail elderly men and women to go on living in their own homes with dignity. And in everything we do for our elderly neighbors, the Burden Center for the Aging relies on the kind generosity of people who share our concern for those too old, too ill, too poor, to manage alone any longer. They are members of your own community who are in desperate need of your support. Please help us and take action today: volunteer, donate, or let us know about someone who could use our assistance.

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