Center Activities
Adult Day Services
For several decades, adult day centers have been providing a form of respite for caregivers, along with therapeutic programs for participants. The National Adult Day Services Association reports that the need for such centers has “jumped sharply to keep pace with the mushrooming demand for home and community based services.” Today there are more than 4,000 centers nationwide assisting families in managing chronic illness or disabilities.
We recognize the diversity and vitality of today’s older citizens and honor the contributions of this generation as we celebrate Older Americans Month. Dating back to 1963, our nation has recognized the legacies of older Americans during the month of May. Prairie Adult Care promotes Older Americans Month with the Administration on Aging theme “Age Strong! Live Long!” Our daily activity program is filled with opportunities for adults with special needs to live an active and healthy lifestyle, plus remain engaged in the community of friends and support networks.
Our support groups meet throughout the month and provide families with referral information as well as helpful tips in managing chronic illness. A support group might be just the connection you need to remain a healthy partner in caregiving and care receiving.
Out and About
Talented student volunteers visit our center during the summer months. These youth enhance our music, recreational games, and conversation groups with an enthusiastic burst of energy.
The outdoor garden patio is in full bloom. Participants enjoy planting and watering the beds, and now await ripe tomatoes and creative floral arrangements! Prairie Adult Care garden was selected to receive the 2010 Minnesota State Horticultural Society Community Garden award.
We havenŐt pulled in any “whoppers” at Staring Lake fishing dock, but we appreciate the beauty of a field trip to beautiful, outdoor Minnesota.
Swimmers in our group enjoy regular dips in the warm, therapeutic pool at Summit Place campus.
Our music lovers look forward to the Buzz Jammers big band concert outings, along with regular melodious entertainment at the center.
Family Luncheon
Family caregivers and care recipients are cordially invited to our summer party on August 19th from noon to 1:30pm. Following lunch, you may tour our award winning garden patio and enjoy music entertainment by “The Generations.” The Caregiver Support Group meeting will be held from 1:30 to 3:30pm. Games and conversation groups are offered in the day program during the meeting time. Please RSVP to our office.
Volunteers
If you are interested in volunteering, our center provides a rewarding experience for both students and adults. If your organization has a light assembly type project, give us a call and we may be able to volunteer our time to you.
Student Volunteers
Plan ahead to spend a few hours at the center during your summer break. Help out with recreational games and meet new friends. Contact our office to find out how we can match your talents and interests to our day program.
Eden Prairie Professionals in Aging
The Eden Prairie Professionals in Aging networking group is a valuable resource for leaders in eldercare services. Contact the EP Senior Center at 952–949–8476 or online for more information.
Caregivers’ Corner
Thoughts from Joanne —
As a caregiver, you may welcome summertime with mixed emotions. Reunions with family and friends and renewed outdoor activities canplace a challenging twist in your caregiving routine. Before you set out on a venture, objectively consider these tips.
- What will you be doing? Will you and your care recipient need to change the manner in which you engage in the event? If so, can you adapt your participation in such a way, as to create an enjoyable experience?
- Study the location. Will you encounter physical barriers to access the event? Will protection from the sun or heat be important? Will the change in location be confusing for the care recipient? If so, what equipment or assistance will be needed?
- Consider the timing. Will you need to adjust meals, medications, rest periods? Consult with your medical team about revising the medication schedule.
- Study travel arrangements, including vehicles and planes. Will you require adaptations? Contact the carrier about services and additional fees.
- Who will you meet? Consider calling in advance to communicate the care recipient’s physical and/or cognitive changes and special accommodations that may be needed.
Preparing ahead for these events can equip you and your care recipient to meet any unexpected surprises with greater success. Enjoy the summer and stay connected to friends!
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