Increased awareness and earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is a mixed blessing.
With the diagnosis comes a family's understanding of what they've been struggling with - but at the same time, a realization of what lies ahead.
In the early stages of the disease, these seniors do not need – nor do they want – the kind of care provided in a traditional adult day care center.
Yet, it is worrisome for the caregiver to leave these seniors home alone for any length of time. Stoves can be left on, doors left open, engines left running.
RESPITE FOR CAREGIVERS
Sandy Freeman, MADCC executive director explains, "Our high-functioning program is a welcome resource for caregivers of high-functioning seniors – they can go to work knowing their loved one is in a safe, mentally-stimulating environment.
"For full-time family caregivers, our high-functioning center is a respite center where they can bring their loved one just a few hours a week so they can take a break and have lunch with a friend, go for their own doctors’ appointments, or just get a haircut!
REGULAR SOCIALIZATION HELPS
“And the best part of all is that by coming to the center for regular socialization and mental stimulation, these high-functioning seniors are actually helping themselves to maintain a higher level of cognition. A high-functioning client might come just once a week, but those who especially enjoy working with the children come all five day,” concluded Freeman. |
Keiki-Kupuna Connection
We are a living memorial because our days are filled with the hustle and bustle of children, and the quiet wisdom of seniors, and best of all - the interactions between the two ages.
We are proud of our partnership with two outstanding nonprofits: Kansha Preschool and Maui Adult Day Care Centers.
Together we are constantly looking for ways to enhance our intergenerational program.
Some days it's the peaceful joy of weeding in our intergenerational garden. On other days it is the excitement of traveling together on a bus to the aquarium.
Each day brings new experiences, and new opportunities to build bridges across the generations.
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