Everybody looks forward to living to a ripe old age, but few want to do it alone. The Victoria Foundation has committed funding for Adult Day Programs by Broadmead Care where seniors can find companionship, well-being and happiness.
A majority of seniors will tell you that they would prefer to live independently in their own homes, in the community that they are familiar with.
Many have taken the time to physically prepare their homes to meet their changing needs as they age.
But few envision living alone, cut off from social interaction, often dealing with a wide range of physical and cognitive issues.
To fill this need, Broadmead Care has committed to building their Adult Day Programs to ensure seniors remain independent and to reduce isolation.
鈥淲e want to keep them mind smart and body fit,鈥� said Melanie Hennig, vice-president of care and community programs at Broadmead Care. 鈥淏y reaching out to these seniors we can identify what they may need and bring in help when needed.鈥�
They have partnered with Island Health to provide Adult Day Programs at three of their residential sites: Beckley Farm Lodge, Veterans Memorial Lodge and Rest Haven Lodge.
The Victoria Foundation recently provided funding for the Bus Program, a pilot project that provided transportation arrangements who those people who have challenges.
鈥淭he program was part of a continuum of care that we provide,鈥� said Lorraine Gee, manager of Beckley Farm Lodge. 鈥淚t made our residential site a community hub for seniors.鈥�
The bus service would bring the seniors to the centre, where they would enjoy a meal, make new friends, play games and give them access to various care providers.
The program, delivered collaboratively with Beacon Community Services and Saanich Volunteer Services Society, takes seniors to medial appointments, to do grocery shopping or just to the mall to buy clothes.
鈥淚t served as part of a social program,鈥� said Mandy Parker, vice-president of philanthropy and communications at Broadmead Care Society. 鈥淰ictoria Foundation鈥檚 commitment not only helped us make the program a reality, but the community at large in finding solutions that help seniors stay independent.鈥�
The Adult Day Program activities often include exercise classes, games, guided walks and lunch and dinner outings. Additionally, outreach and adult day programs at Beckley Farm Lodge provide recreational and meal programs at two off-site locations in the James Bay community.
The lodge also offers a bathing program, in a specialized and dedicated tub room, for those in the community who require assistance with bathing.
Day Program clients can also take advantage of an overnight respite program that allows seniors鈥� families short-term respite care.
鈥淲e provide support for families in the form of information sessions and access to support groups,鈥� said Gee. 鈥淲e take care of the spouse.鈥�
Access to the adult day programs is by referral through Island Health. For further information or to schedule, contact Lorraine Gee at 250-381-4421 ext. 234 or the Day Program office at 250-4421 ext. 229.
For more information, go to broadmeadcare.com. 鈥� Pedro Arrais
