Adult Day Centers
Mary is all smiles these days as she boards the Elderhaven van. At Elderhaven Adult Day Health Center Mary spends the day dancing, listening to music, playing games, and laughing with the new friends in her “crocheting group.”
Last holiday season, Mary’s situation was very different. Her multiple health and cognitive issues challenged Mary’s family in balancing the demands of caregiving and the demands of working full-time. This overwhelming situation prompted Mary’s family to make the difficult decision to place Mary in a nursing home.
Things began to change earlier this year when one of Mary’s relatives began volunteering at Elderhaven. He observed the loving care extended to the seniors by the Elderhaven staff, and the entertaining activities enjoyed by the clients– dancing, playing games, exercising, and making new friends. After touring the center, Mary’s family enthusiastically agreed that this would be an option that would allow Mary the joy and dignity of living at home with family. Mary would be in a safe and stimulating daytime environment. Mary’s hypertension and other chronic illnesses are now carefully managed each and every day by our full-time nurse.
The Elderhaven staff worked hard to help Mary’s family find the financial resources to cover the cost. Transportation is provided by the Elderhaven van. AGE’s Health Equipment Lending Program (H.E.L.P.) provided Mary with a free shower chair. AGE’s Caregiver Resource Center offered invaluable caregiver support and education to her family. Mary left the nursing home and returned to the warmth of her own home and family, spending her days under the safe and professional care of Elderhaven staff.
Every day, families across Central Texas struggle to provide care for older loved ones. Your support today will enable AGE to continue to help people like Mary remain a viable part of their family and the community, especially during the holidays. This year, her family is able to have a very “Mary” Christmas!
I recently visited Elderhaven and was quite impressed with the facility, staff and activities, which is why I posted this letter I got from them and encourage you to check out the adult day centers in your area. Christmas is the season that many non-profits reach out to the community for support. I hope you’re in a position to provide some. — Wayne Caswell, Modern Health Talk founder & senior editor
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