The Amsterdam Adult Day Health Care program convenes in Amsterdam Nursing Home. The former gatehouse for Croton Waterworks System is an elegant staple in the community, which also boasts Columbia University and the Cathedral Church of St. John Divine. Inside, lofty ceilings and a skylight impart an air of luxury. The administrative offices flank a comfortable seating area; the layout encourages interaction between staff and participants. As we waited in the lobby, we observed a female participant consoling her friend, who expressed that she was having difficulty reading. The cheerful woman began talking about audio books, and we heard her say, “You know, they have religious stuff, too.” Her friend happily responded, “Oh, I love the religious stuff,” and they both went on their way. This early encounter was our first glimpse of the familial atmosphere fostered in the program.Movement such as stretching and “Geri-Gym” are popular physical activities. Other activity mainstays include table puzzles, arts and crafts, word games, painting and even jewelry-making! Participants benefit from current events discussions, Bible study and health-related seminars. Guest entertainers add variety to the programming. Participants take occasional field trips to community events and local restaurants. Amsterdam offers comprehensive medical services including nutrition, counseling, psychiatry, orthotics, urology, oncology, cardiology, cardio-pulmonary, neurology, physical, occupational and speech therapies, dermatology and ear, nose and throat clinics. Although special programs are implemented to serve participants with dementia, the activity calendar and sensory stimulation are better suited to mild cases.Although most of the participants of Amsterdam Adult Day Health Care Center are frail elderly, everyone was outgoing and there was an energetic atmosphere on the day of our visit. Participants chatted with one another as they nibbled on afternoon snacks. The director kindly reminded one participant with dementia to wear a warmer coat the next day; she also followed up with another participant about her upcoming podiatry appointment. The director is clearly an integral part of this successful program.
