“We help our kupuna by exploring the range of benefits and resources available to them, including those provided by CCH, such as transportation, in-home support, housing assistance and more. It’s all geared toward giving seniors the opportunity to stay home and remain independent and engaged,” says Diane Terada, division administrator for community & senior services at Catholic Charities Hawai‘i.

Staying Engaged
Drusilla Tanaka and mother Jeannette Akamine are two generations of women who have experienced the health and emotional benefits of staying active and connected to their community. They are both members of Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (LMPSC), the largest of its kind in the state, serving over 1,500 seniors. The facility offers members the opportunity to join various clubs and participate in over 30 classes.

And it’s not just the healthy social interaction, LMPSC offers members a connection to knowledgeable staff to help them navigate the myriad of senior services available to them.

“We have a social worker who counsels our members on everything from housing, to social security forms to applications for food stamps,” says Iris Hiramoto, membership specialist at LMPSC. “We do our best to help our seniors with their needs and questions through assistance or referrals to help them safely age in place.”

“The people, staff, and volunteers are so lovable. They are magic. They draw you to come,” says Jeannette. As a member for over 15 years, she already knows the health benefits, “It’s the best medicine for me to come here.”

Offering Support
A growing number of seniors with memory care issues rely on assistance from family or friends to help them age in place. For those families, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i offers support for caregivers.

Positive Approach to Care™ (PAC), is an organization that provides support training for caregivers and certifications for groups or individuals who provide dementia care. Earlier this year, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i began offering PAC workshops just for dementia caregivers. The trainings provide essential information on how to have a positive and meaningful relationship with loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia throughout their journey.

“I’ve been to other caregiver trainings, but I can’t tell you how valuable the information was that we received during the PAC training,” shares Sanae, has been a caregiver for her mom for the last nine years. “I’m so thankful for the vision of Catholic Charities Hawai‘i for providing this training. It’s so practical, usable, and serves this great need. It has empowered me to continue caring for my mom who has dementia.”

Help us help our kupuna age in place
Through your support, last year we helped 3,245 seniors. Please consider making a generous donation today to help us continue providing services that allow seniors in our community to thrive in their independence.