Our society, including the diocese, is challenged to develop a positive vision of these years. Although there is no official, organized program specifically directed toward seniors, the bishop and other diocesan leaders are supportive and encouraging of participation in established ecumenical and non-profit agencies. A recently established committee of the Texas Catholic Conference on Aging is working to sensitize the entire state to various aspects of this issue. Respect Life is gradually expanding its concern for the unborn to include the issue of euthanasia. The diocese participates in the Austin Metropolitan Ministries Task Force on Aging.
Some parishes support the ecumenical Caregiver organization.
Some parishes also have social and recreational programs for retired and senior citizens. Especially commendable are those parishes that extend themselves by providing liturgies to shut-ins and residents of nursing homes. However, general attitudes toward the later years of life are generally uninformed, due to the shortage of trained leadership. Much is being done for seniors by federal, state, county and civic organizations, as well as by various churches other than Catholic. However, such services do not yet have adequate means for distributing information to the public.