421 Shore Drive
Branford CT 06405
MEDICAL ADULT DAY CARE CENTER
Orchard House
Because We Understand Since 1981
Frequently Asked Questions
• MedicineNet – Health and Medical Information Produced by Doctors
• Everyday Health – Online Health Information
• Caregiving – Insights,
Information, Inspirations
www.caregiving.com
• National Center on Caregiving
• Everyday Health – Online Health Information
• American Diabetes Association
• American Federation for Aging Research
• American Heart Association
• The American Geriatrics Society
• The AGS Foundation for
Health in Aging
• Senior Veteran’s Service Alliance
• Connecticut Home Care Program
for Elders (CHCPE)
• The Connecticut Statewide
Respite Care Program
Our Resources
• Caregiving – Insights, Information, Inspirations
www.caregiving.com
• National Center on Caregiving
• Everyday Health – Online Health Information
• American Diabetes Association
• American Federation for Aging Research
• The American Geriatrics Society
• The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging
• Senior Veteran’s Service Alliance
• Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)
• Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.com
• Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut
www.aoascc.org
• Alzheimer’s Association
www.alz.org/index.asp
• American Health Care Association
www.ahcancal.org
• Parkinson’s association
www.parkinson.org
• MedicineNet – Health and Medical Information
Produced by Doctors
www.medicinenet.com
• Everyday Health – Online Health Information
www.everydayhealth.com
Jamie Lane
"The staff at Orchard House are like family. They treat my loved one with such kindness and respect. I have peace of mind knowing they're in good hands."
Max Johnson
"My mom used to be so isolated, but since joining Orchard House, she's made new friends and is always excited to share stories about her day."
Jesse Neimus
"The activities at Orchard House are fantastic! My dad looks forward to the outings, games, and crafts. It keeps him mentally and physically active."
Drew Carlyle
Orchard House has been a lifesaver for our family. The respite care they provide allows us to recharge and take care of ourselves while knowing our loved one is safe and happy."
Testimonials
How do I apply to Orchard House?
There are 4 easy steps to get started, which include the initial tour of our center, completed membership application, medical records from your doctor, and picking a start date! Learn more about the admission process by calling Joyce at 203-481-7110 or send an email to: jmartinelli@theorchardhouse.org.
Is there flexible scheduling?
Yes, Orchard House strives to meet the demands of caregivers and members and understands that sometimes schedules need to be flexible. Call Joyce for details at 203-481-7110.
What do members do all day?
At Orchard House, we cover it all! From group to individual activities, our focus is on fun, friendship, caring and sharing. Everyone is included, whatever their ability levels may be. We do this through lots of music, dancing, art of all kinds, cooking, sports/games/exercise, history, intergenerational programs, out trips- and more! Our goal is to create warm and loving emotional memories for each day, that our members will then take home with them.
What if my loved one refuses to attend?
It’s common for an individual with dementia to refuse to try something unfamiliar. During your assessment, we can help identify and implement strategies to ease the transition into Orchard House. This could include starting the person on a day with a certain activity they would especially enjoy, introducing them to a current participant with shared interests, or finding a way to help make the person feel useful and needed at the center. We typically find that once a person has attended for several weeks, they begin to adapt to and appreciate the routine of the center quickly!
Are you able to care for people who are incontinent?
Yes. Members are provided full assistance if needed.
Are you able to care for people who wander?
Yes. Orchard House has safeguards in place for people with dementia. Our secured exits, open floor plan, and attentive staff allow members to wander safely without risk.
Are you able to care for people with difficult behaviors or who are aggressive?
In most cases of difficult behavior, yes. In our experience, we have found that appropriate activities, atmosphere, and approach can minimize aggressive behaviors in people with dementia. We know that behaviors often have multiple causes, and in some cases can even be greatly reduced or eliminated through knowing the person’s triggers, treating underlying medical conditions, or medications. With our extensive knowledge of dementia care, individuals who have behavioral difficulty frequently adjust and do well at Orchard House. If, however, a person becomes a threat to him/herself and/or our staff and participants, we will work with the family to find a solution.
Do you provide meals?
Orchard House members receive a nutritious light breakfast, hot lunch, and mid-day snack each day. Meals are compliant with USDA nutrient standards and are verified by a certified Dietitian. Orchard House can accommodate many dietary restrictions or preferences as well.
How does transportation work?
Orchard House offers door to door transportation on wheelchair accessible vans for towns including Branford, Guilford, North Branford, New Haven, East Haven, North Haven, and Hamden. All drivers are CPR Certified.
Is there a cost to attend Orchard House?
Yes. The Day program at the Orchard House is a full day of care provided for just $20.00 per hour. This includes activities, companionship, socialization, nursing supervision, medication administration, nutritious meals, caregiver support, and transportation* **. *Sliding scale rates are available to those that financially qualify. **Contact Joyce for more information. 203-481-7110
Will health insurance or Medicare cover the cost of adult day centers?
Unfortunately, not at this time. Medicare and most health insurance programs will not cover adult day care expenses, however, some long-term care insurance companies will. For those who qualify, Orchard House attendance may be covered by the Veterans Administration under their Aid and Attendance Benefit, Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut, and the Alzheimer’s Association.