By Shannon Bowen • Posted June 18, 2015

The Souderton Adult Day Care Center dedicated by Bishop John McIntyre June 16 is not a typical Catholic senior center.

For one thing, it is not in the urban settings of most of the centers run by archdiocesan Catholic Social Services but rather serves the Souderton borough and surrounding communities of suburban Montgomery and Bucks counties.

“When the bishop arrived, I welcomed him to our country home,” said the center’s director, Deb Lytle. “It’s a park-like setting: green and beautiful. The garden club ladies have flowers everywhere, as well as seasonal wreaths. Inside, there are pictures and artwork.”

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Besides the country setting, the other big difference is the clients served. Since the center is run by archdiocesan Catholic Health Care Services, it does more than help seniors socialize through activities and a hot meal.

It primarily serves adults 60 and over who need supervision or assistance with daily living due to an illness or disability including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, arthritis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis or brain injuries.

Services such as bathing and feeding are offered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. to services help the guests stay engaged and as active as they can be. A recreational therapist is on board, and soon a nurse’s aide.

Caregivers and loved ones also get a break with socialization just for them.

In addition to a calendar of events for guests each month, “everyday activities are structured to handle emotional, physical and social needs, anything someone could want,” said Lytle.

Activities are designed to improve cognitive function, memory care, friendship and physical exercise, she added.

The cost for the services is $63 for a full day or $38 for a half day. Transportation is provided by public paratransit. Currently three seniors attend the program every day, with three more anticipated to start soon.

The site of the Souderton Adult Day Care Center, located at 228 Ridge Avenue next to the community senior center Generations of Indian Valley, had been vacant for a year.

Catholic officials became interested in the building last September after the archdiocesan nursing homes were sold.

The center became operational at the end of April, and is currently reaching out to potential guests through information mailed to area homes and in the church bulletins of surrounding parishes.

Lytle said about 40 people including participants and residents of the community attended the blessing by Bishop McIntyre.

“It was a lovely blessing, and the perfect afternoon,” she said.