SENIOR HEALTH

Spectrum Adult Day Health Program

The Spectrum Adult Day Health Program provides a specialized and supportive environment for people with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

As the only day program certified by the Alzheimer's Association of Eastern Massachusetts, Spectrum's sensitive, caring, multidisciplinary staff are specially trained to care for individuals with memory disorders.  This cost-effective option for caregivers can enable those with Alzheimer's disease or memory loss to maintain independence and remain in their own homes.  Spectrum also gives families' well-deserved respite and peace of mind that their loved ones are in a safe and uplifting environment.

LEVELS OF CARE

Spectrum provides individualized programs for participants at a variety of abilities and focuses on their particular strengths and interests.  Ongoing assessments ensure that an appropriate plan is in place to meet each client's needs.  An enhanced care option is available for clients with more intensive care needs.

THERAPEUTIC ENVIRONMENT

The Spectrum Center is a secure environment designed to accommodate the cognitive changes individuals experiencing memory loss face as their disease progresses.  Participants enjoy socialization in a warm, supportive environment.  Therapeutic, failure-free activities are offered that match the skill level of each participant to promote positive feelings and to enhance each person's personal dignity and self-esteem.  Outings and seasonal celebrations are offered on a regular basis.

The lighting, colors, furniture and flooring in the Center were all carefully and thoughtfully selected, keeping in mind the visual, spatial and physical changes and challenges individuals experience with all types of memory loss.  There is a beautiful, therapeutic garden designed to provide clients a safe place to explore and feel the mood-enhancing effects of natural sunlight.

PROFESSIONAL CARE TEAM

Spectrum offers a one to four staff-to-client ratio.  The professional staff consists of nurses, social workers, activities' specialists and certified nurse assistants.  Skilled nurses work closely with primary care physicians to assess clients' health on an ongoing basis and administer medications.  Certified nurse assistants can also provide showers.  Spectrum offers nutritious meals at breakfast and lunch and also provides morning and afternoon snacks.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT AND HOURS

The Spectrum team offers education, counseling and support group services to assist families and friends in their care giving roles.

We offer extended hours to serve the needs of families.  We are open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  A Saturday respite program is offered from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Transportation can be arranged by van or chair car as necessary.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

While most clients of Spectrum pay privately to attend, third party payment for eligible individuals is available via MassHealth or North Shore Elder Services, SeniorCare, Mystic Valley Elder Services, Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley or Greater Lynn Senior Services.  In addition, some long-term care insurance plans may cover the cost of the program.  Check the particular policy for eligibility.