May 19, 2012
 
 
Welcome to the Ellis County Friendship Center
If you are entering your retirement years or if you have a friend or loved one looking for a place where they can find friendship, a sense of community, education, travel, fun, and whole lot more, look no further. We are here to help.

Welcome!


The coffee's on, interesting activities are in store and help is available to deal with the intricacies of life, from figuring out Medicare, insurance or income taxes to finding care for a parent or loved one, or help for any of the myriad of challenges that face mature adults. 
 
Please take your time and enjoy your visit at our home on the web. There are many helpful resources to help you find out more information about the Ellis County Friendship Center.
 
 
Our History:

Headquartered in the heart of Ellis County, our center has been helping older adults live with dignity and independence since it was founded in 1998. The founders saw the need to address loneliness and isolation, the two major factors that contribute to ill health in the aging process, and envisioned a center which would help older adults enjoy life while accessing the help they need to live with dignity and independence.
 
Senior Centers:

The Ellis County Friendship Center has expanded into six satellite centers. All of our facilities offer activities as diverse as the people they serve. Exercise, arts, travel, languages, and activities which promote healthy lifestyles and preventive care are featured at all sites.

Check out this video of our volunteer, Eliot Perez, leading a Senior Aerobics class. Classes are held weekly, so stop by the front desk to sign up! Eliot has 12 years of experience with senior fitness and nutrition. His classes are fun, high-energy, and he works out alongside you to make sure you learn the steps, and most importantly, don't overdo yourself. With a good diet and proper exercise, you will feel much better each day as well as take care of your own health!
 
A Place to Find Answers:

People can find help with almost any question they might have through the Friendship Helpline, part of a national network which provides information to navigate the sometimes confusing network of services available to older adults. This helpline is included in the monthly membership fee.
 
Community Outreach:

Ellis Friendship Centers address the cultural diversity of the communities they serve through special programs that address the unique needs and interests of participants. Information is available in Spanish and English and translators are available to assist whenever possible. For individuals who are interested in learning English, the Senior Literacy Program provides trained professionals to help them develop the language skills they need to function independently.
 
 
Care Giving/Frail Elder Care:

Caregivers and their families can find help for their loved ones through our Frail Elder Services and Adult Day programs. Care coordination and case management help older adults age with dignity while residing in their own homes avoiding premature institutionalization. Realizing that both caregivers and their loved ones benefit from time off from each other, the Ellis County Friendship Center and its satellites offer adult day services that provide stimulating activities in a secure environment. Caregivers also get emotional support and helpful information through support groups at the Center. Click here to learn more.

Health Care:
 
Healthy aging is increasingly important as our older adult population increases. Ellis Friendship Center has long been a leader and national model in this area with our Center for Healthy Aging. At this medical center we provide basic health and dental care for older adults on limited incomes.

The medical center is staffed by professional physicians, nurses, and related personnel who work closely with the Ellis County Public Health Department to provide care. Physicians and Dentists enjoy being able to continue to work with patients and remain active in their professions without the stress of running an independent practice. Patients benefit by having excellent care from seasoned professionals who often have more time to spend with them.


Transportation:

Transportation is one of the biggest challenges older adults face. Ellis County Friendship Centers Around Town (ECFCAT) program can help seniors explore options available to them. Our buses offer transportation to and from the centers, and over 25 drivers help with the transportation needs of those who don't drive.