The Downtown Cluster's Geriatric Day Care Center
WISH LIST: $100: 2 occupational therapy sessions for 10 seniors; $500: 81 hours of geriatric care; $1000: arts and crafts supplies for 90 participants for 1 year
Founded 33 years ago when senior citizens were being abandoned in hospitals -- or even on the streets -- Downtown Cluster's Geriatric Day Care Center provides therapeutic and supportive services to functionally impaired, elderly Washingtonians, 65% of whom have incomes at or below the poverty line. While institutional care can cost over $80,000 annually, the Center provides services for less than $8,200 and also insures that all clients can remain in their own homes. It provides vital services like meals and transportation, and keeps seniors' days meaningfully occupied -- in recreational and art therapy, counseling, and active socializing. Those recovering from strokes participate in movement classes and occupational therapy, and arthritis sufferers practice joint protection and work simplification techniques. Alzheimer's clients (38% of the Center's seniors) strengthen their speaking and nurturing skills by interacting with toddlers in a unique therapy program. The Center also provides crime prevention education, extended day care, supplemental food distribution, and intergenerational programs. One in six DC residents are 60 or older, so the need is great. Compassionate care can truly bridge the gap between generations.
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