Interfaith Caregivers Programs

An interfaith program is comprised of several congregations in the community along with Pathways Volunteer Hospice to develop a coalition designed to meet the needs of our frail elderly in our community.

Today’s society is faced with the challenge of maintaining high standards of health care despite a continued increase in medical costs, senior population and an ever increasing number of people diagnosed with a chronic illness that requires long-term care.

Most people in our community do not have adequate social and/or financial support and only 5% live in nursing homes.

The Coalition

Pathways have joined forces with congregations and other agencies in our community to develop a coalition designed to meet the needs of our aging population. The common goal is to identify older populations within our community that would benefit from a Caregivers Program. The outcome would be:

Seniors with long-term and/or chronic illness would be able to remain in their homes by providing volunteer home based care and support.
A lifeline for isolated individuals would be established to promote independence and self-worth.
Advocacy to provide concrete resources and referrals and assure access to services for our aging population.

Available Services

Respite Care (relieving a Caregiver for short period of time
Weekly Companionship / Socialization
Shopping and errands assistance
Handyman Services
Transportation assistance
Light housekeeping and meal preparation

In order to form coalition of congregations within the community Pathways Volunteer Hospice provides trained volunteers to:

Assist with Shopping and errands
Provide companionship and socialization
Offer respite car (relieving weary family members)
Perform handyman services
Assist with transportation to doctor appointments
Provides light housekeeping and meal preparation

Hospital Program

Pathways Volunteer Caregiver program has expanded the floors of Lakewood Regional Medical Center. A long time partner of the hospital and beneficiary of the Tenet Corporation, Pathways saw a way to give back to an institution that has supported our organization for 15 years. Well-trained Volunteer Caregivers led by Pat Hunter, R.N., and visit patients on the 2^nd and 3^rd floors of the hospital or where ever the nursing staff sees a need. Pathways' Volunteers take the time to visit and get to know patients who do not have many visitors or family in the area. Their goal is to make the patients feel that someone really cares and is looking out for them. Attending to small tasks that may free up the nurses, Pathways' Volunteers hope to share a little kindness with patients who feel alone and isolated.

Agency Collaboration

Pathways works with a variety social service and health related organizations to better serve the frail and elderly in our community. Our most noted partners are Lakewood Meals on Wheels, SCAN, The Burns Community Center, The Weingart Senior Center, the Cerritos Senior Center and Family Services of Long Beach. Together, our collaborations bridge the gap that befalls many of our seniors today.