Senior Expo and Extravaganza set for Sept. 27

Staff Report

Village House Adult Day Program coordinates the annual Spring Senior Health Fairs and Fall Senior Expos at Riordan Hall. Each event is designed to provide the community with helpful information from more than 70 local providers, covering services that range from elder law, insurance and real estate to adult day programs, in-home care agencies, assisted living communities and all things "seniors." These events are free to the public, and attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the health screenings, door prizes, giveaways and lunches. The upcoming Senior Expo Extravaganza is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, and the theme is "Through the Decades." Vendors and participants are encouraged to pick their favorite decade, dress up and have a fun experience.

VHADP is the only adult day program in Northwest Arkansas, and 2018 is its 30th anniversary year. Participants range in ages from 18 to 90-plus, with a variety of conditions, including blindness, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's and other dementias, Parkinson's, COPD, and adults with special needs, among others. VHADP provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack and can accommodate special dietary restrictions. The staff focuses on participants' strengths and abilities by individualizing activities and care while minimizing disabilities and weaknesses. Exercise, music, movies, laughter and reminiscing barely scratch the surface of what participants will do throughout the day at Village House. The direct-care staff consists of CNA.s, and the team includes a life-enrichment coordinator, outreach specialist, cook and director. VHADP relies on the community for financial support, and the team of volunteers creates and maintains a welcoming, engaging, enriching environment.

Socialization is important at every stage in life. Being a caregiver is a stressful, often isolating experience. VHADP provides an opportunity for the caregiver to have a break, as well as enhances the quality of life for participants and their loved ones.

VHADP has implemented several community programs recently, to say "thank you," to the community for the past 30 years of support. These free services include a caregiver support group, Lunch N Learn Series, and utilization of the community room by churches, clubs and other organizations for meetings and various events. VHADP is extremely proud to be a part of such a wonderful community and is sincerely thankful for the past and continued support.

VHADP participants can attend eight hours per day, five days per week, or as little as once every 90 days. Fees for services range from $10.84-$15 per hour. Medicaid covers the program, and some long-term care insurance policies will reimburse beneficiaries for program costs. The first day is always free, and grants and scholarships may be available for services. VHADP is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 479-855-4449 for more information about the services, or visit www.villagehousebellavista.com.

Community on 09/19/2018