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It may be difficult to plan or even think about the extra care an elderly parent or grandparent may need. But Carol Burns, executive director of Greenwich Adult Day Care, says that doing your homework could help you in the long run.
"No matter how much research you do, until you need the service, it's going to go right by you," said Burns. "You may have an inkling [an elderly service] is out there, but it is not until you're in a situation where you realize a loved one needs help" that you get all the facts.
One of Burns' goals is to make the Greenwich and Stamford community aware of what is offered at Greenwich Adult Day Care. From "I Love Lucy" trivia contests to Tai Chi, the River House prides itself on providing recreation and socialization outlets for its elderly clients. It is staffed with a professional health staff that can administer medications, help with personal hygiene, do therapeutic exercises and offer a full lunch with two snacks.
Burns said, "When someone enrolls, I also suggest that they look at the nursing homes in the area. It makes life easier than being in a crisis when you need something right away."
With a nursing background and 23 years at the day care, Burns makes sure the center's guests have the best care possible. She said that when someone comes to the facility, the attention is strictly on his or her needs. "People are so grateful for everything you do," she said. "The focus of the staff is on them, and they appreciate everything little thing you do for them. The reward is the thank yous and smiles at the end of the day."
The River House is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. It offers daily activities, midday meals and door-to-door transportation to Greenwich and Stamford. For more information, call 203-622-0079.
Adult day care can provide services to seniors with impairments while offering respite to their caregivers. Is this a service that could help you or someone you know?
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