Elderhaus Adult Day Program -by Linda L. Osmundson
After learning of my husband’s dementia in 2013, I immediately joined a recommended support group through Elderhaus Adult Day Program. We convened weekly in a church across the street from the original care facility. Once the program moved to its new location, 6813 College Ave., Fort Collins, meetings met in the conference room and eventually in the basement. With the onslaught of Covid, the group connected virtually.
Facilitators led the meetings offering research information, suggested books, education and open discussions. I learned from people who walked in my shoes and experienced the same problems I had.
When I needed respite from the 24/7 stress of caregiving, I enrolled Bob for a few hours a day Tuesdays and Thursdays. Staff fed him lunch, took him on fishing trips, to a local gym and treated him with dignity. I couldn’t have asked for better care.
I continued attending support meetings even after Bob passed. My personal experiences, education through dementia workshops and as an Alzheimer’s Educator served others in the group. Eventually, Elderhaus hired me to facilitate the two virtual groups. As an employee, I learned first-hand the extent to which staff learned about each participant. They not only gleaned medical/nutritional requirements but the past life of the participant to ensure respect and dignity for the person, even though changed by illness.
Although no longer involved with Elderhaus, I highly recommend them. Elderhaus offers compassionate week day care for ages 18 and up to clients living with dementia or other disabilities allowing respite for their caregivers. The “haus” consists of a large two-level hospitality venue in a picturesque setting, with dining, meeting, crafts and exercise facilities.
Director Jenny Langness and I toured the facility recently. She explained the new outdoor and indoor activity spaces, programs and caregiver advocacy. The support group currently meets in-person Thursdays, 10-11 am at the facility. Elderhaus supports caregivers and loved ones by providing respite along with the support group, newsletters, education and other resources.
Elderhaus stresses these four pillars of care:
* Social Engagement
* Cognitive Stimulation
* Safe and Fun Physical Activities
* Good nutrition
Transportation to and from the facility can be arranged. Vans/buses transport participants for a wide range of community engagement activities, making it possible for each participant to enjoy events and programs according to their full potential. In addition to such activities as fishing, crafts and visits to interesting places, Elderhaus provides healthful opportunities like gym workouts, hiking and swimming with professional supervision.
Elderhaus teams with CSU to allow undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Occupational Therapy (OT), Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) and Social Work opportunities for hands-on work and internships.
Jenny Langness instituted two additional programs which benefit the client and caregivers. DayBreak is a drop-in program for caregivers who need a few hours respite but not the full or half-day program. The ElderHands workshop works closely with the Alzheimer’s Association and allows those suffering with dementia an opportunity to stay productive, engaged and to give back.
If searching for a dementia day care program for a loved one, check out Elderhaus Adult Day Program at
Linda L. Osmundson authored the award-winning three-book series How the West Was Drawn – Cowboy Charlie’s Art, Frederic Remington’s Art and Women’s Art. Like the series, her newest book, Papa’s Changes, Dementia Through a Child’s Eyes is meant for readers age 7 - 107. Hundreds of her articles have appeared in magazines, anthologies such as Chicken Soup for the Soul, blogs and newspapers. Discover more at LindaOsmundson.com.
