Council On Aging

Contact Information

Department Head
Keli Anderson – EMAIL
(406) 874-3482
Registered Nurse
position vacant
Licensed Practical Nurse
Ginger Mueller – EMAIL
(406) 874-8686

Please call for appointment during office hours.
Phone – (406) 874-3482
Fax – (406) 874-8160
EMAIL
Address – 1010 Main Street, Suite 12, Sheriff’s Office Basement Room 3, Miles City, MT 59301

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Custer County Council on Aging is to enhance the quality of life and promote the well-being of seniors in our community. Through compassionate care, advocacy, and innovative programs, we strive to empower seniors to live independently, engage actively, and age with dignity. Our commitment to serving seniors with respect, integrity, and inclusivity drives us to provide comprehensive support services, foster social connections, and advocate for policies that address the evolving needs of aging populations. Together, we envision a vibrant and supportive community where every senior can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling and meaningful life.

The purpose of the Custer County Council on Aging is to advise the Board of Commissioners on all needs and interests of senior citizens over the age of 60 residing in Custer County. The goal is to help our senior citizens stay healthy and happy and able to live in their own homes as long as they want to. We manage several programs ourselves, and have information on many others that may be helpful to seniors.

Services we provide directly include Home Delivered Meals (also known as Meals on Wheels); Congregate Meals, Senior Commodities, Transportation Assistance, Health Promotion programs, and home visits by Skilled Nurses, Personal Care Assistants, and Homemakers. Please call, email or visit our office to sign up for programs or to find out about services offered by other agencies and organizations.

SERVICES

Congregate Meals

Congregate meals offer a valuable opportunity for seniors aged 60 and older to enjoy nutritious food in a communal setting while fostering social connections. For many older adults, social isolation can be a significant concern, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. By offering a regular opportunity to gather and connect with peers, congregate meals help combat these feeling of isolation and promote mental well-being. Congregate meals are twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. This initiative not only provides seniors with nourishing meals but also creates a supportive environment for social interaction and camaraderie.

Key Details:
• Location: The 600 Café, at 600 Main St, serves as the venue for congregate meals, offering a welcoming space for seniors to gather and enjoy their meals together.
• Schedule: Congregate meals are held every Monday and Thursday, providing seniors with the opportunity to enjoy nutritious food twice a week.
• Time: Meals are served between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM, allowing seniors to start their day with a satisfying and balanced meal.

Financial Considerations:
• Suggested Donation: Seniors are encouraged to make a suggested donation of $6 per meal. This contribution helps support the program and ensures its sustainability.
• Full Price: The full price of the meal is $12.25. However, no senior will be turned away due to an inability to contribute financially. Guests of seniors who are under 60 years old are required to pay the full price.

Participant Requirements:
• Age: Participants must be 60 years of age or older to qualify for the congregate meal program.
• Intake Form: Seniors interested in attending congregate meals are required to fill out an intake form. This form collects basic information and helps program administrators ensure that participants meet eligibility criteria.

Benefits of Congregate Meals:
• Nutritional Support: Congregate meals offer seniors access to balanced and nutritious food, promoting overall health and well-being.
• Social Interaction: By dining together, seniors have the opportunity to connect with peers, share experiences, and build friendships, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Community Engagement: The 600 Cafe serves as a hub for community engagement, providing seniors with a sense of belonging and connection to their local community.

FORMS:

Download the Intake Form for seniors >

Senior Commodities

The Senior Commodities Program in Custer County is a vital resource designed to ensure that seniors aged 60 and older have access to nutritious food to support their well-being. Tailored specifically for seniors residing in Custer County who meet federal income guidelines, this program aims to alleviate food insecurity among the elderly population.

Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the Senior Commodities Program, individuals must meet the following criteria:
• Age: Seniors must be 60 years of age or older.
• Residence: Applicants must reside within Custer County.
• Income: Participants must meet the federal income guidelines established for eligibility.

Program Overview: The Senior Commodities Program operates on a bi-monthly distribution schedule, providing food assistance once every other month. This regular distribution ensures that seniors have consistent access to nutritious food items to supplement their dietary needs.

Application Process: Seniors interested in participating in the Senior Commodities Program are encouraged to apply through the designated channels. This typically involves completing an application form provided by the program administrators. Proof of age, residency, and income may be required during the application process. Click here to download and fill out an application now.

Benefits of Participation: Participating in the Senior Commodities Program offers numerous benefits for eligible seniors:
• Improved access to nutritious food items.
• Supplemental support for individuals on fixed or limited incomes.
• Enhanced overall health and well-being through proper nutrition.
• Opportunities for social interaction and community engagement during distribution events.

FORMS:

Intake Application >

View the 2024 Federal Elderly Income Guidelines Chart >

Meals on Wheels (MOW)

As individuals age, maintaining proper nutrition becomes increasingly vital for overall health and well-being. For seniors who are homebound and face challenges in preparing their own meals, accessing nutritious food can be a significant hurdle.

Meals on Wheels is a nationwide program dedicated to providing home-delivered meals to seniors who are unable to shop or prepare meals for themselves. This service operates with the aim of ensuring that every senior has access to nutritious food, promoting their health and independence while reducing the risk of malnutrition and isolation.

How Does it Work?
To benefit from Meals on Wheels, individuals require a signed doctor’s referral, affirming their need for home-delivered meals. This ensures that the program can target those who are most in need of assistance due to health or mobility issues. Once enrolled, participants can expect to receive meals Monday through Friday, with the flexibility to opt for specific days according to their preferences and requirements.

Benefits of Meals on Wheels:

Nutritional Support: Meals on Wheels offers well-balanced, nourishing meals tailored to meet the dietary needs of seniors. These meals are designed to provide essential nutrients and are designed by a dietician.
Convenience: For seniors who face challenges in shopping or cooking, Meals on Wheels provides a convenient solution. With meals delivered directly to their doorstep, individuals can enjoy delicious and wholesome food without the hassle of meal preparation.
Social Connection: Beyond food delivery, Meals on Wheels volunteers often serve as friendly faces, valuable companions, and provide a daily safety check on the seniors. Regular interactions with volunteers not only brighten the recipient’s day but also combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Peace of Mind: For families and caregivers, Meals on Wheels offers peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving regular, nutritious meals and social interaction, even when they are unable to provide hands-on support.

FORMS

Click here to view the Meals on Wheels policy >