More older adults in the Newton area can enhance their mind, body and spirit in part thanks to the generous $100,000 donation from the Fred Maytag Family Foundation to Willowbrook Adult Day Center. The grant will provide scholarships for those area older adults who have a financial need in order to support their health and independence.
Willowbrook will be hosting a guest day on March 28, where older adults can participate in services between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at no charge to experience the vibrant and engaging environment first hand.
Willowbrook provides a vibrant environment for older adults in Jasper County who require assistance, support and involvement with others throughout the day to be happy, active, productive and safe. Individualized plans are designed for each participant and include help ranging from health and medication monitoring, to specialized activities and therapies, to social activities and entertainment. Services provided not only help the participant stay active and independent longer, they provide peace-of-mind to caregiving family members who must balance a loved one's care with personal and professional responsibilities.
"We often hear, 'I wish we would have done this sooner," says Margot Voshell, Willowbrook Adult Day Center Director. "One of the myths people believe is that seeking adult day services signals the decline of a loved one. Rather, at Willowbrook, we're going to elevate you and help you to be as healthy and active as you possibly can for as long as you can. Thanks to the support of the Fred Maytag Family Foundation, we are able to serve more people to help fulfill this mission."
Willowbrook opened its doors in 1985, and became a part of the WesleyLife family in 1992 when it relocated to the newly opened Park Centre retirement community campus. Located at 501 E. 2nd Street, N. in Newton the center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can serve 20 individuals daily. Those interested in finding out more should contact Margo Voshell (641) 791-4500.
In the 2009 Unmet Needs in the Senior Living Program Study, the Iowa Department of Aging found the highest unmet need throughout the state of Iowa was adult day centers.
More people are choosing to remain in their own home and adult day centers provide the necessary services and peace of mind that families need to continue in their caregiver role. Adult day centers are an economical choice as the daily rate is about a third of the cost of institutional care.