Our Works of Charity / David Bethuram
Aging with dignity and the mission of Catholic Charities
In a world that often prizes youth and speed, the quiet strength and wisdom of age can be overlooked. Yet, within every wrinkle lies a story, and in every silver strand there is a testament to resilience, faith and love. Aging is not a decline—it is a deepening. It is the season when the fruits of a life lived in service, sacrifice and hope come to full bloom.
Catholic Charities agencies across the country recognize this sacred truth. Every day, they walk alongside older adults, honoring their dignity and ensuring they are not forgotten. Whether through home-delivered meals, affordable housing, counseling or companionship programs, Catholic Charities serves as the hands and heart of Christ to those in their later years.
Mrs. Flores was a retired schoolteacher. At 87, she lived alone in a modest apartment, her days quiet but filled with prayer and memories. She came to Catholic Charities to inquire about the Senior Companion Program. The Senior Companion Program is a peer-to-peer program for older adults. The program links Senior Companion volunteers with older adults who would benefit from a friendly visitor in order to remain in their homes.
When the Senior Companion first visited her, Mrs. Flores greeted her with a warm smile and a plate of homemade cookies. Through time, she shared stories of her childhood in Mexico, her journey to the U.S. and the hundreds of children she had taught over the decades.
One day, Mrs. Flores said she used to think she was invisible now that she’s old. Mrs. Flores said when the Companion comes to her home, she feels seen again. That moment stayed with her Companion. It reminded her that the greatest gift we can offer is presence—the simple act of showing up, listening and loving.
These ministries are more than services—they are relationships. Volunteers who visit the homebound don’t just bring food; they bring joy.
Caseworkers who help navigate health care don’t just offer guidance; they offer peace of mind. And in every act of care, there is a quiet affirmation: You matter. You are loved. You are not alone.
This mission is especially urgent in Indiana, where the aging population is growing rapidly. Family and Social Services Administration Division on Aging estimated that as of this year nearly 19% of all Hoosiers will be age 65 or older, and in 62 of Indiana’s 92 counties, that figure will exceed 20%. The fastest-growing segment is those 85 and older, a group that often requires the most support and care.
The U.S. Catholic bishops in their pastoral message called “Blessings of Age” encourage us to reflect on the blessings of age and our call to serve. The elderly among us are not a burden—they are a blessing. They are our storytellers, our prayer warriors, our living history. And through the work of Catholic Charities, we are reminded that to care for them is not only a duty—it is a privilege.
May we all grow old with grace, and may we never cease to honor those who have paved the way before us.
(David Bethuram is executive director of the archdiocesan Secretariat for Catholic Charities. You can contact him at dbethuram@archindy.org.) †