Guided by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, the mission of Aging Services is to offer programs to older persons and their families to support maintenance of independence and continued community living. We serve persons in need regardless of religious, sexual orientation, ethnic, racial or social background.

Service is provided in the home and community of the client. Both paid staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities Aging Services have certain characteristics in common: a genuine respect and enjoyment of older persons; maturity; an appreciation of others belief systems; willingness to attend a Supportive Service Training program; and an ability to handle emergencies. Aging Services provide paid staff and volunteers an opportunity for growth and for personal and professional development.

The programs that accomplish the Aging Services mission are:

Free Caregiver Practical Skills Training
Our free caregiver training consists of a one-day class that focuses on the essentials of caregiving.  You will learn moving and lifting techniques, positioning and transferring as well as incontinence issues and infection control.  You are in the company of other caregivers who understand and identify with your challenges.

CompanionCare
Established in 1999, this program promotes self-reliance of older persons and encourages continued engagement in community life. Mature responsible Companions–screened, trained and supervised by Catholic Charities staff–provide a variety of services that often determine whether an older person can remain living in the community.

Elder Mentor
The Elder Mentor program, established in 1990, provides friendship and support to older individuals living in Dane County. Volunteers in this program meet needs that other senior service providers are not able to address. Catholic Charities staff matches the client with a volunteer who is committed to helping elders.

Respite Care Team Ministry
Respite Care Team Ministry is a ministry of area congregations with consultation, training and on-going support provided by Catholic Charities and Oakwood Village. The Respite Care Team Ministry compassionately serves intergenerational families throughout the area and is active in congregations of all denominations. There is no charge to the individual or family for the support and assistance provided by the team. All team contacts are confidential and services are offered to persons regardless of race, religious belief or economic status.

Please also visit our special Age Page for helpful tips, links, information and inspiration all related to aging.