“It’s a lifesaver!” exclaims Albert Clarke, Jr. when asked how he feels about the Ruth Byck Adult Day Care Center where his father, Albert Clarke, Sr., has been a client since early 2008.  It’s not hard to understand why when you see the joy in his father’s eyes.

Albert, Sr. has Alzheimer’s disease, and when it became apparent that he could no longer be left alone while his daughter, Gloria, worked and Albert, Jr. cared for their ailing mother, his children didn’t know what they would do.  Then they discovered Senior Citizens, Inc. 

Adult Day Care, a United Way funded program of Senior Citizens, Inc., offers all day adult care for Alzheimer’s and dementia clients, as well as other fragile seniors.  Director Katy Harne explains that the Center’s focus is on delaying the institutionalization of their clients by creating a safe and mentally stimulating environment for seniors to transition through the aging process.  “Every day is brand new,” says Albert, Sr. in reference to the games, music, food, and interactive discussions that are all part of the experience for seniors at the Center.  

 “Albert is an ideal person for our program,” says Harne, adding that his social skills have enabled him to take on a supportive role for his fellow clients.  Though, by his own admission, it took some time to adjust. “I didn’t like it at first,” he says with a grin.  But soon Albert, Sr. was making friends, joining in group sing, and even began teaching his favorite card game, Tonk – a type of knock rummy.  Gloria recalls that she knew he was over the hump when one evening she went to check on Albert, Sr. and found him dressed and ready to leave.  When she asked him where he was planning to go, he told her that he needed to get to the Center, he didn’t want to be late.  Obviously, the program had made an impact. But a few moments with Albert, Sr. and it’s clear that the friendships he’s gained have been the greatest benefit.  “Noel is a great guy…an original,” he says referring to his Tonk partner and friend, “and we love to win.”  Thanks to the Ruth Byck Adult Day Care Center and his devoted children, he’s winning far more than card games.

Senior Citizens, Inc. provides the only all day Adult Day Care Centers in Chatham, Effingham and Liberty counties that are overseen by a registered nurse and a full-time activities director.  For information about Senior Citizens, Inc. call 912.236.0363. 

United Way of the Coastal Empire is a proud funder of this program.  For information about how you can support programs such as this call 912.651.7700, and thank you for helping your community to LIVE UNITED.

Pictured from left to right: Gloria, Albert, Sr. and Albert, Jr.