For the first time in its 37-year history, SSM Health Adult Day Services, 420 E. Merrill Avenue in Fond du Lac, is now utilizing its own handivan for client outings or unexpected transportation needs thanks to a $33,425 donation from the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation. The handivan addition is allowing Adult Day Services clients and staff to get out and about and have experiences in the broader community. “Activity outings are an important part of helping seniors sustain their physical and mental health,” says Julie Schwartz, RN, Adult Day Services supervisor. “Being active can improve mood, sleep, and the immune system. Making friendships and accessing the local community and making those connections can really help to decrease isolation and loneliness, two areas where seniors may struggle if they are lacking in social engagement.” Adult Day Services clients are welcoming the handivan with great enthusiasm. “Our clients feel proud to ride in a van that advertises our name and shows off our great program,” Schwartz says. “Families and staff are also grateful that we have the ability to offer outings on a more spontaneous basis as we no longer need to coordinate shared use schedules.” Adult Day Services is a day program that helps meet the health care, personal care, and socialization needs of the elderly, chronically ill and disabled. “We are so incredibly fortunate to have services, such as Adult Day Services, to help older adults enjoy the friendships that are built and the assistance that our caring team can offer,” says Shawn Fisher, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation executive director. “Through this new handivan, we are able to support clients in taking advantage of the many experiences that are available locally and to continue creating new memories for each person that we serve.” Clients can include individuals that need to be monitored and treated for health concerns, are recovering from hospital care, or need someone to watch them while a loved one works or takes a needed break. Clients benefit from medication administration, personal care (bathing, hair and nail care), healthy mind games (cards, games, exercise, community outings) and more. They can attend full or half days, and from one to five days per week based on their individual needs. Adult Day Services is open weekdays from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm. For more information, call 920-921-5812.
