Featured in PrimeTime News April 2023

Supportive care helps elders stay healthy at home longer

Adult Day Centers help families keep their loved ones at home longer by providing a wide array of supportive services during the day within a secure and nurturing environment.

Throughout the day, participants are engaged in physical and social activities that have a positive effect on their mind, body and spirit.

“At each of our locations, we create a warm, welcoming space that feels like a home away from home,” explained Jessica Gosselin, Director of Saint Elizabeth Adult Day Centers. “Families can leave their loved ones with us, knowing that they will receive compassionate care and attention all day long.”

A typical day begins with a ride to the center – transportation is often provided by the facility. Breakfast is served, followed by morning fun which may include anything from chair aerobics to crafts. Before you know it, lunch is ready and it’s time to plan for the afternoon. Depending on their schedule, participants head home any time between 2 and 4 pm.

After assessing the participant and enrolling them in the program, staff develop a personal care plan that includes nursing, physical exercise, social activities and, of course, nutritious meals.

“Many of our participants have any medical or health needs addressed while in adult day,” added Gosselin, “whether it’s medication distribution, physical therapy or even bathing and hygiene.”

A critical aspect of adult day is the relief they provide for caregivers. Looking after a parent or elderly family member is a lot of work and having them attend a program once or twice a week can provide respite for caregivers.

Trained staff at the facilities are also able to keep a watchful eye on participants to notice if there are any changes in their well-being. Often, they can connect families with addressing their needs before they become more urgent.

Depending on their financial situation, participants may be eligible for assistance through a number of programs that help participants pay for their services including Medicaid, @Home Cost Share, Respite, and the Veterans Administration.

Saint Elizabeth Community operates 4 centers: Bristol, South Kingstown and two in Warwick: Apponaug and Warwick Neck. Now part of Saint Elizabeth Community, the programs were originally founded as Cornerstone Adult Day, which started fifty years ago in 1973. Many other organizations offer similar services throughout the area. The Saint Elizabeth Adult Day Center in Warwick Neck specializes in memory care for adults with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive issues.