St. Ann’s Adult Day Services celebrates togetherness after 14 month-long shut down, dedicates garden to ‘new beginnings’

Posted on June 10, 2021 |

Staff and participants of St. Ann’s Adult Day Services (ADS) at Durand gathered on Monday to commemorate the recent reopening of their in-person programming. After a 14 month-long state-mandated COVID closure, this gathering was a heart-felt, joyous celebration of new beginnings.

Participants shared stories on how the reopening of the in-person program has impacted their lives. Gathering in person keeps participants like Jay Mason both physically and mentally active. “I get to make beaded jewelry, and socialize with other people instead of staying home and vegetating,” Mason shared. “Being here with others makes me feel better. It helps battle any feelings of depression.”

Penny Watkins, another participant in the Adult Day Program, can’t say enough about being able to return to St. Ann’s. “Other than activity packets, I really didn’t do anything during the COVID-19 shutdown,” Says Watkins. “I felt lonely and isolated. I will be forever thankful for the support and friends I have here.”

The Adult Day Services staff helped facilitate the planting of a cone flower garden, which has been dedicated to the beautiful new beginnings in 2021. “The garden will be symbolic of the obstacles we overcame last year, the beauty of 2021, and the togetherness that it brings,” said Rola O’Meally, Adult Day Services Director. “It’s such a pleasure to be back.”

Adult Day Services at Durand provides a safe, supervised social environment for older adults and people with disabilities. They currently have 59 participants between both medical and social programs, with several open spots available for older adults that are interested. Participants can be assured that proper COVID-19 protocols are in place, including masks, daily screenings, sanitizing, and a COVID test upon admission.