ADULT DAY SERVICES
SPRINT Adult Day Program offers joy and helps build acceptance
 Sister Monica has cared about others her entire life and she can’t stop doing so now as a member of the SPRINT Adult Day Program.
SPRINT Adult Day Services has been offering older adults with physical and/or cognitive impairments a pleasant and secure environment to socialize and participate in individual and group activities for two decades. The programs are conveniently located on Yonge Street just above Eglinton at the Anne Johnston Health Station in North Toronto.
Mutual support
“We support each other,” says Sister Monica, a member of a religious order. Her Mother Superior suggested about a year ago that she may enjoy participating in the day program near Yonge and Eglinton.
“We are recognizing each other’s limitations,” she says. “We don’t need to be able to understand each other, we need to be able to accept them.” Sister Monica was an educator for over 40 years, including many years as a principal at a Catholic elementary school in the city.
At the day program, she especially enjoys interaction with Oliver, a Cavalier Spaniel brought in by a staff member. “My first question is always, ‘Is Oliver here?’” says Sister Monica. “He is icing on the cake,” she says, adding that the best part of coming is being with all the people.
 Prevent inappropriate institutionalization
SPRINT staff member Patty Page, an activationist who has been with the program for nine years, says it is challenging for many participants to communicate clearly and they often no longer understand their own diagnosis. Nevertheless, she says positive interaction between clients keeps her going.
“If I can draw clients out in a small way, it makes me very happy,” says Ms. Page. “Non-verbal participants may show their enthusiasm in other ways -- a smile or the way they touch a visiting pet like Oliver.”
Participation in adult day programs can prevent pre-mature or inappropriate institutionalization of persons with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Moreover, as program members enjoy the day program, their family or caregivers find respite from their daily tasks of caring for a person with dementia.
“The people with whom I live know I love coming here,” says Sister Monica. “We support each other in this program.”
Flexibe program hours for members
The SPRINT day programs run in the mornings, afternoons and on Saturdays. Attendance is flexible with some program members opting to attend twice per week and others daily. Ocassional attendance for respite is also available.
Families, caregivers and health care professionals are encouraged to contact Chantelle at (416) 486-8666, ext. 227 to learn more about the program. Or contact Chantelle.
Transportation to program
Transportation to SPRINT's Adult Day Services is available for program members who need assistance.
 Caregiver support
SPRINT also offers individualized caregiver support and caregiver groups at no cost. A social worker is on site at SPRINT Adult Day Services to assist with obtaining information, referrals and additional support.
Fees
There is a modest fee for these programs and a separate fee for transportation if needed. SPRINT provides financial subsidies for people in need within resource available. SPRINT gratefully acknowledges donations to offset these costs for families.
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