FEATURE | Having fun in Biddeford

The Southern Maine Area Agency on Aging offers vibrant and fun day programs for older adults living with dementia

By RANDY SEAVER | Editor

From the outside looking in, it seems like just another Wednesday afternoon, but for more than a dozen members of the Biddeford Adult Daycare Program it is another day of fun, social activity, creative activities and peer engagement.

The Southern Maine Area Agency on Aging (SMAA) operates three adult day programs in Biddeford, Portland and Springvale.

The Biddeford center is located in the Sam L. Cohen Center on the Barra Road, and it was rocking and rolling when we paid a recent visit to learn more about the center and its programs.

According to program manager Nicole Garritty, the SMAA operates the programs to provide meaningful social activities for older adults living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias – and to provide some respite for their caregivers.

While members enjoy a safe and stimulating environment, caregivers gain time to work, attend appointments, run errands, rest or just simply recharge.

“Being able to take a breather from the often-strenuous task of home care, allows family members to recharge so that they can be at their best and continue caring for their loved one at home,” Garrity explains.

The primary goal, Garrity said, is to help older adults remain as independent for as long as possible by providing meaningful activities, social connection and personalized support.

A DAY OF FUN at the SMAA Adult Day Program

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“Each day, our staff works to keep our members cognitively, physically, emotionally and socially engaged,” she said.

The activities offered in the program are as diverse as the program members.

A typical daily schedule in the Sam L. Cohen Center might include gentle movement and low-impact exercise; arts and craft activities, gardening and outdoor activities; memory games, special presentations and lots of relaxed social time, where members can enjoy the company and companionship of their peers.

“There is no set schedule,” explained Jacqui Baker, activity lead at SMAA’s Biddeford Center. “Community guests, presentations, or special events are always in the mix. We really work to keep things fun and relaxing.”

“After only a few days of participation, we generally see a dramatic improvement in our members — in terms of their mood and energy level,” Baker said,

The Biddeford program runs two shifts; one from 9 a.m. to noon; and another that runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

SMAA is staffed by 70 professionals but it is also supported by more than 500 volunteers at its three centers,

While some families may assume that adult day programs are unaffordable, the services are often much more affordable than people expect, said Debbie Condello, a SMAA development associate.

“There are multiple forms of financial assistance available, including MaineCare and other funding sources,” Condello said. “Our team works closely with families to explore eligibility and navigate the process.”

Condello says the best way for families to learn more about the SMAA’s programs is through a simple phone call.

During their first call, families have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about available options, schedule a tour and even arrange a complimentary trial day to see if the program is a good fit.

“Families often tell us they wish they had reached out sooner,” Condello said. “Even if someone is unsure whether they need services right now, having a conversation can help them understand what support is available and plan for the future.”

To find out more about the SMMA’s day programs, you may call (207) 396-6508 or visit their website at https://www.smaaa.org/services-for-older-adults/adult-day/

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