A Renewed Life Knows No Age Limit
Change can be difficult at any age, but for Esther, who was in her late 80s, the loss of her daughter plunged her into deep depression. For most of their lives Esther and her daughter had been constant companions, going everywhere and doing everything together. Unable to live alone and care for herself, Esther moved in with her son and daughter-in-law on their rural farm. There she sat in her chair for hours, her depression deepening. Her family felt helpless. They knew she needed to be around people and tried to find ways to occupy her mind and her time. But the programs for the elderly in their community were either too expensive or Esther was not independent enough to participate in them.
Her family had all but given up hope when they learned about the Volunteers of America Marie Smith Center, a fully accredited adult day care center in Albina, Oregon. At first Esther was hesitant to go, but soon she looked forward to each day at the center. She thrived on the personal attention from the trained and caring staff. In this safe environment, Esther enjoyed a nutritious lunch, exercise and activities in an atmosphere that enhanced her self-confidence and emphasized dignity and independence. Her family benefited too, because the Volunteers of America Center provided them a welcome respite from care giving. It also gave them back the Esther they knew and loved, her life renewed and filled with hope once more.