Virtual WISE Adult Day Services Continue with Support from The Grotta Fund for Senior Care of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest NJ
Grant Funding Enables The Gateway Family YMCA to Support Vulnerable Population During Pandemic
For over 35 years, The Gateway Family YMCA’s WISE (Wellness, Independence and Socialization for our Elders) Adult Social Day Services program has specialized in meeting the unique needs of members living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and/or mild cognitive impairment. With a strong focus on family and caregiver support, WISE provides caregivers a necessary respite while their loved ones are engaged in activities that challenge their minds, memories and creativity in a supportive environment. The Virtual WISE program continues this commitment utilizing a unique format for the safety of WISE members.
“It is our belief that supporting the caregiver and family is just as important as assisting their loved one,” stated Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO. “Our staff team is dedicated to these families, providing daily contact, information, socialization activities, support, counseling, home visits and meal delivery. During these concerning times, we want to provide continuity of support to our members and families. This virtual format allows us to support our members while they remain safe at home.”
The Virtual WISE program’s curriculum includes daily activity emails, wellness and movement activities, weekly social work support, live virtual Zoom activities, caregiver support groups, home drop-off of activity supplies and meals, and 24/7 telephone availability of WISE Center YMCA staff. Each morning members receive an email filled with calendar specific topics and sensory based activities like virtual tours, songs, recipes and exercise recommendations. Regularly scheduled live Zoom meetings provide WISE staff-led activities and fun like “FamJams”, trivia sessions, karaoke and online games. WISE staff are always available for individual, family, and/or caregiver support through 24/7 phone access. To date, over 150 WISE families have been supported by the program throughout this pandemic.
“The way the program adapted to this new era is amazing. Susan is genuine and very supportive and we are still getting the support we need. This program is life saving and life changing. My mom’s doctor has commended me for the care she is getting and I have to share the credit with WISE,” stated a Virtual WISE program caregiver.
The impact of Virtual WISE Adult Day Services is possible due to the ongoing support of grant funders like The Grotta Fund for Senior Care of the Jewish Community Foundation of MetroWest NJ.
“We are very appreciative of the continued support provided by the Grotta Fund. They have been a great partner to our YMCA as we work together to strengthen community.” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “Together, we are supporting this unique demographic throughout the pandemic through our Virtual WISE Adult Day Services program.”
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about the Virtual WISE Adult Day Services Program, please contact Susan Butler, Director of WISE Adult Day Services at 908-349-9622 or sbutler@tgfymca.org.
Virtual WISE Adult Day Services is run by The Gateway Family YMCA, a leading 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, the Y focuses on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y ensure that all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.
For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA visit www.tgfymca.org.
