Salvation Army Adult Day Program Supports Caregivers and Their Loved Ones

Billy Doran was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s more than eight years ago. Initially, his wife Jane was able to manage her job and caregiving duties. However, as the disease progressed, she realized she was going to need some assistance.

Jane turned to The Salvation Army’s London Village, a place where Billy has felt at home since day one.

“He has always been very active. So I wanted a place where he felt like he wasn’t different than anybody else and could still be part of a family or a team environment,” Jane says.

“I wanted a place where he felt like he wasn’t different than anybody else and could still be part of a family.”

Billy is in the Adult Day Program at London Village, which supports seniors diagnosed with cognitive impairments or individuals in frail health through therapeutic recreational activities in an inclusive environment. The program runs Monday through Friday, with plans to expand to Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They serve up to 50 clients daily.

Keeping Clients Engaged

“Throughout the day we offer exercises, lunch, washroom care, and therapeutic programming that covers all the wellness domains. It is a holistic way for us to stimulate the clients’ minds and bodies to ensure that they are getting out of the house, moving, socializing and having the best quality of life that they can have,” Katelyn Selves, program supervisor, explains.

The Salvation Army’s staff ensures activities are accessible for individuals of all abilities. Every day starts with a discussion to stimulate conversation among clients. Later, they take part in games such as trivia or bingo. The program also emphasizes physical therapy through seated exercises led by an instructor and through music and dance.

Billy enjoying dancing

The dance aspect is one of Billy’s favourite activities.

“My husband loves music as he grew up with a lot of church music. He loves to laugh and to dance. I think being there has allowed him to be that person still,” Jane adds.

Admired Among Peers

Billy’s uplifting personality has made him popular. During his time at London Village he has built close friendships and is frequently featured in photos and videos that the staff take.

Seeing Billy dance on video means a lot to Jane, who says these clips allow her entire family, including her grandchildren, to get a glimpse of Billy’s joyful personality.

“They are phenomenal. I call them my angels. I am forever grateful.”

“I have so many videos, and I kept every email I received from them of what Billy was doing. To me it is invaluable, especially as the disease progresses. I can go back and read these and know that he is still that person,” Jane shares.

Helping Families

The Adult Day Program also supports caregivers. Katelyn says that while participants are engaged in activities, caregivers can have a break to take care of themselves.

“It gives them an opportunity to go out for the day or have some time for self-care, while they know their loved one is in a safe and engaging environment,” Katelyn says.

In Jane’s case, this assistance allowed her to provide a stable income each month.

“If I didn’t have this support through The Salvation Army, I couldn’t have continued to work,” Jane says.

Additionally, the program recently introduced an educational component for the clients’ families. Every Tuesday, they meet and learn tips on dementia care and have open social discussions.

Billy has now been part of London Village for five years. Jane feels incredibly satisfied with the support they get from The Salvation Army and recommends the program to other families going through similar situations.

“They are phenomenal. I call them my angels. I am forever grateful,” Jane adds.

By Juan Romero