OUR HISTORY

The Care for Aging Sisters Association Kenya (CASAK) is a faith based non-profit organization established with the purpose of supporting the care of elderly and infirm sisters and other people of God. CASAK was officially registered with the registrar of societies’ act 19 December 2023 and as registered trustees in July 2024.

Managing care for the elderly is a major challenge in the developing world as healthcare service providers, nursing agencies, physiotherapists, and others are often independent providers who deliver sub-optimal care. In Kenya, health insurance coverage is essentially limited to hospitalization and geriatric care has remained a neglected area of medicine in the country. Moreover, most government facilities are in urban areas and not accessible to sisters in rural areas.

With the growing numbers of elderly and infirm, the congregational leaders raised a concern on how to appropriately respond to the healthcare needs of elderly and infirm sisters. Conrad N. Hilton foundation responded to this concern by supporting the newly founded Centre for Research in Religious Life and Apostolate (CERRA-Africa) in 2021 to carry out an in depth survey to explore the magnitude of this concern. Among the congregations who responded to the survey, were 57 congregations from Kenya where 19 congregations were local congregations and 38 congregations were international. Two-thirds of respondents said that the needs of elderly sisters were “very important” to the future of sisters in Kenya and another 16% said they were “important.” When asked about their level of satisfaction, only 44% replied that they were somewhat or very satisfied with current senior care, with the greatest concerns being quality of care and affordability, a lack of geriatric expertise, insufficient health insurance, the need for improved quality of care, and a shortfall of accessible assisted living facilities

With the support of The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, 22 out of the over 170 women religious congregations in Kenya, held their first meeting on the 1st March 2023 and officially started care for the elderly and infirm Sisters network.  In this meeting the 22 Congregation major superior draft the first constitution that delineated the identity and drafted the first strategic plan to spearhead the activities of the new Association. And so, Care for Aging Sisters Association, was begun with a clear mandate and a functional office.

CASAK since then has been building a momentum for Kenya sisters to create plans for future senior care with a possibility for pooling resources together for an endowment fund and an inter-congregational assisted living facility for sisters who are in great need for specialized care.

Stakeholders pause for a photo during the launch of the 1st strategic plan in May 2023 at JJ McCarthy Spirituality Centre, Nairobi.
Dr. Sr. Agnes Njeri, from Conrad N. Hilton Foundation addresses Stakeholders at the Launch of the 1st Strategic plan in May 2023, at JJ McCarthy Spirituality Centre, Nairobi
Stakeholders pause for a photo at the 2nd Strategic Plan( 2024-2029) in June 2024 at AOSK Chemchemi ya Uzima Centre
Care givers Training Session in progress at JJ McCarthy Spirituality Centre in Nairobi

OUR SERVICES

At CASAK, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support to the elderly and infirm sisters. Our programs are designed to address their unique needs and ensure their wellbeing. Through our dedicated team of professionals, we offer a range of services, including:

  1. Medical Assistance: We provide access to quality healthcare services, including regular check-ups, medication management, and specialized treatments.
  2. Emotional Support: We understand the importance of emotional wellbeing in the aging process. Our trained counselors and support groups help sisters cope with loneliness, stress, and any emotional challenges they may face.
  3. Recreational Activities: Engaging in enjoyable activities is essential for maintaining a fulfilling life. We organize various recreational programs, such as art workshops, music therapy, and yoga sessions, to enhance the quality of life for our sisters.
  4. Nutritional Care: Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining good health. Our dedicated team of nutritionists ensures that our sisters receive balanced and nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs.
  5. Skill Development: We believe in empowering our sisters with lifelong learning opportunities. Through skill development programs, we help them acquire new skills and engage in meaningful activities.
  6. Advocacy: CASAK advocates for the rights and needs of the elderly and infirm sisters. We work closely with policymakers and organizations to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for them

Join us in our mission to provide compassionate care and support to our aging sisters. Together, we can make a difference in their lives..

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