A wonderful opportunity for everyone to learn about the very special place
known as Orchard House, at 421 Shore Drive in Branford, comes next Sunday
afternoon.
From 2 to 5, it’s having a 30th anniversary
celebration.
Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman and Kristen Cusato, former news anchor
at WTNH-8, will be on hand, as well as yours truly. Refreshments, entertainment
and a silent auction will be part of the excitement.
The celebration will
honor many of the individuals and organizations whose support over the years has
meant so much.
Founding director Thomas Romano opened the door on the lower level of the
First Baptist Church on Main Street, Branford, to two clients when this adult
day-care center started. Two years and 12 clients later, the center moved to its
present home, where it provides services to residents of Branford, East Haven,
Guilford, Hamden, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven and West
Haven.
The men and women who attend Orchard House range in age from 60 to
close to 100. The people lovingly cared for there usually have more extensive
needs for care than can be accommodated at most senior centers, which serve
independent, self-sufficient individuals. Orchard House is open during the week
from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on weekends from 9 to 3.
I spoke recently with
Stephanie Evans-Ariker, the charming nurse who is now the executive director of
Orchard House. She has held executive positions in geriatric home care and
assisted living and is passionate about the full range of services Orchard House
is able to provide. A fleet of wheelchair-accessible vans provide round-trip
transportation from clients’ homes.
Warmly greeted by an aide, a senior
upon arrival is given a snack and then can participate in a variety of
activities, such as armchair aerobics, tai chai or yoga. Several registered
nurses are on the premises to dispense needed medications.
New members
receive a thorough health assessment so that ongoing monitoring and nutritional
planning can follow. Special support can be provided for those with dementia or
Alzheimer’s. During the day, a hot meal is served, and there is music therapy,
entertainment, arts and crafts and a chance to enjoy visiting pets or the
extensive, lovely gardens with walking paths.
For those who would prefer
to just relax or watch their favorite TV program, there is a lounge area with
plush recliners and a state-of-the-art television.
For information, go to www.theorchardhouse.org or call 203-481-7110.
If you are a caregiver who is stressed out managing your life and the life of a loved one, the Orchard House Medical Adult Day Care Center can offer a cost-effective, high-quality solution. Too many seniors are institutionalized prematurely because relatives are not able to handle the responsibilities of home or work requirements and also the ongoing needs of a beloved relative.
Contact Jean Cherni, certified senior adviser for Senior Living Solutions and Pearce Plus, a full-service program for seniors contemplating a move, at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net or 15 The Ponds at 101 Hotchkiss Grove, Branford 06405.
