Catholic Charities' Aging Services offers programs to older persons and their families to maintain the independence of community living.
We serve people in need regardless of sexual orientation, religious, ethnic, racial or social background.
Guided by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, 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:
We hold one day classes as well as shorter workshops that focus on a specific area of caregiving. Topics that are covered in the training include moving, lifting and transferring techniques, incontinence issues and infection control.
Established in 1999, this program promotes self-reliance of older persons and encourages continued engagement in community life. Mature responsible Companions are screened, trained and supervised by Catholic Charities staff and provide a variety of services that often determine whether an older person can remain living in the community. Specialized dementia care is also provided.
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.
Volunteers Needed! We currently have a waiting list of female elders living in the Madison area who are in need of assistance with transportation, shopping, and recreational visits to play cards and enjoy crafting. Please visit our Elder Mentor Program page for more details and contact Jean Mueller at (608) 833-4800 ext. 112 if you are interested in volunteering.
Respite Care Team Ministry is a ministry of area congregations with consultation, training and on-going support provided by Catholic Charities and Oakwood Lutheran Senior Ministries. 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.
Please also visit our special page for helpful tips, links, information and inspiration all related to aging.