For people not requiring hospitalization or nursing home care,
adult medical day centers play an increasingly important role. Medically fragile people, especially seniors and their families are finding the help they need in these centers. In addition to medical staff, the multi-disciplinary approach of most centers provides the services of social workers, dieticians and recreation personnel to more fully address the needs of each client and their families. Some centers go by the name of adult day care, adult day health center or medical day care. No matter what these health centers are called, they can help people with medical needs live at home with a richer, more vital and enjoyable life.

Young at Heart, with centers in Eatontown, Jackson and Asbury Park is an excellent example of adult medical day care. Registered nurses perform medical assessments and screenings to monitor each patient's health status, reporting findings to families and physicians. They act as medical case managers and advocates to ensure that patients are receiving appropriate and necessary treatment. They assist patients with medication, explaining the purpose of the medication, side effects and possible drug interactions. For people who need help eating, walking, or going to the bathroom, nursing assistants provide care in a dignified manner.

Nutrition is an important part of the Young at Heart program. Balanced meals, including breakfast, a hot lunch and a nutritious snack are available to each participant. For people who need special diets, the staff, in conjunction with a registered dietician, ensure that the prescribed foods are available. Individuals who need help eating can count on the staff to assist.

Social workers are available to meet with individuals and their families. The social worker can help families with long term planning, obtaining additional help in the home and linking with other benefit programs for the patient and their families. Emotional support for patients and their families is always available.

Recreation and leisure activities are the primary focus of the Young at Heart's activities department. Program participants have the opportunity to practice their hobbies with as much or as little assistance as they require. A program day is filled with fun activities that are designed to stimulate the memory and the senses. Physical activities help maintain or improve physical well-being. Intergenerational activities give program participants the opportunity to interact with children, an event that benefits the program participants, the children and the community at large. Besides recreational trips into the community, the calendar also reflects trips to the grocery store; hair salon and other "errands" that help participants maintain their level of independence and ties to the community. Transportation for the activities, as well as daily transportation to and from the program, is always included.

Visiting with friends, old and new, is an important added benefit as people gather around playing games, working puzzles and doing arts and crafts. This socialization and support help people cope with feelings of loss and loneliness, giving participants a new circle of support and friendship.

One of the most important features of Young at Heart is that it is a safe and pleasant place to be. Participants receive the medical, nutritional, social and recreational services that they need. Families receive respite and reassurance that their loved one is being well cared for.

Young at Heart is a licensed medical day care center and a member of the New Jersey Adult Day Services Association.

For more information on Young at Heart or adult medical day care, call 732-775-4451. Meredith Fuller, CSW, Administrator, Young at Heart-Asbury Park.