Adult Day Programs

Potential clients for the program are referred through a variety of sources, for example, Home and Community Care, other clients, physicians, friends, relatives or perhaps, even a concerned community member.

Home and Community Care is often the first point of contact, although in many instances a call is made to the program staff. The program staff then refer the client/caregiver to Home and ​Community Care whom, after doing an intake process, sends a file to the Day Program. After reviewing the file, the client and caregiver are contacted and invited to come for a visit to the program. An assessment of the clients, goals, needs, likes, dislikes as well as abilities is undertaken in order to ensure the program meets the client’s needs. Legal waivers and emergency contact information is also collected and transportation arrangements discussed. Clients will be reassessed periodically.

Each program consists of elements that address all aspects of a client’s needs – physical fitness, mental stimulation, good nutrition, outings, socialization and crafts. The program also supports independence autonomy and is goal-orientated.

Exercise programs are geared to the group’s ability levels to reinforce “wellness”. Participation in group activities also encourages a sense of belonging, is an excellent esteem booster and often provides an opportunity for laughs. We use balls, senior workout audio cassettes and videos. Walking short distances is also encouraged with canes or walkers, if necessary.

Stimulating the mind is an important component of daily activity. Program assistants use games, books, magazines and discussion topics to draw out participants and to provide meaningful and appropriate social interaction and reminiscing.

Keeping clients involved in the community is one of the goals of the program. Visiting both new and familiar sites are incorporated into seasonal planning. For example – boat cruises, museum visits, picnics, bus rides with visits to the beach, festivals, the zoo, farms and parks.

Nutritious snacks and lunches are served at all programs and form an integral part of a holistic approach to programming. Many clients, particularly those living alone, benefit immensely from lunches that include all four food groups

Lunches are prepared by the dietary staff at Georgian Manor. Occasionally, as the result of a baking program, dessert or a whole meal is created by clients under the supervision of staff and volunteers. This always is an enjoyable time for everyone involved. On occasion everyone goes out to a restaurant for lunch. The program staff and volunteers organize fundraising events which provide the funds to augment these activities.

Craft activities are available to those clients who are interested and have the ability to produce craft projects.

Many clients require a brief rest period after lunch. Comfortable chairs usually suffice for a quick snooze. This ensures that the client gets a good night’s rest and provides caregivers with a break. Components of the programs all have a therapeutic base. Activities conducted are purposeful and meaningful to clients and are outcome based. Activities simply for the sake of passing time are not the norm. Many components require specific skill sets at various levels to achieve a desired outcome.

Penetanguishene and Elmvale Adult Day Programs are developed in tandem with the Alzheimer’s Initiative to ensure the broadest range of service delivery. We are also continuing to build strong relationships with other service providers and community groups. Many service groups and community groups have contributed both time and money to maintain and enhance the programs.

Two staff members are assigned to each program location. Some program locations require a higher compliment of staff due to functioning level and size of the group. Program assistants are required to have a health care background and experience in programming and activation.

Staff are responsible for assessments, all day supervision of clients, program delivery, attending to personal needs, i.e. meal assistance, toileting and coordination of transportation. ​