Adult day center opens in Carson City Senior Citizens Center

Couches, recliners, paintings, tables and chairs furnish an area with a fish tank as part of the "Share the Day" adult center in the Carson City Senior Citizens Center.

Owner Tammy Sisson and director Jody Stella are building a "guest list," after opening for business Tuesday.

Stella said they prefer to call their clients guests, and want the public to know they are not a "drop-off" center.

"They share their day with us, not us with them," Stella said.

"We go over the center's activities, and I will ask the guest what they would like to do. Tuesday, I did tai chi with our guest. It was great. She really enjoyed it."

Stella said requirements are the guest must have Alzheimer's or some form of dementia, be age 65 or older, and be a willing participant. A client assessment is done, and a physician's form must be completed.

"These people know they're not here to be baby-sat. When they are here, they become a volunteer and help us and others.

"We provide sensory stimulation and offer activities that are purposeful to them."

Stella said the family may participate in the activities. It is something she and Sisson encourage.

"We want them to trust in what we are doing," she said.

"We don't have a negative attitude or approach. If we have to, we introduce ourselves every day. We let them realize their life has a purpose, and if they forget things, it's OK."

"I see the face of some of the caregivers to those who have a form of dementia, and they're very tired," Stella said. "They need help."

Once the guest is established, Stella asks for three days' notice for bringing him or her in. Center staff does not administer medications, but will remind the guest they need to be taken.

Employees of the center go through a background check, are CPR- and first-aid-certified, and are given a tuberculosis test. They also receive grieving and Alzheimer's-care training.

"I am not a 'sit-on-your-butt' kind of person," Stella said. "I like to do things, and I like to do things with the guests. That is why we don't have televisions in here.

"We do have activity tables and a small kitchen area for snacks. It's amazing to be involved with these people. They are wonderful."

The center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. The cost of a full day is $65; a half-day is $55, The family can choose the hours, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Families considering the service are asked to call the center at 284-5505 for an interview. Medical information needs to be discussed, as well as guest requests.

-- Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.

Center facts

Requirements: Guest must have Alzheimer's or some form of dementia; be age 65 and older and a willing participant. A client assessment is done and a physician's form must be completed.

Open: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

Location: Within the Carson City Senior Citizens Center, 911 Beverly Drive

Cost: Full day $65; half-day $55

Call: 284-5505