Expansion Underway: State-of-the-Art Active Day Center in Powell County

Construction of a new 5,000-square-foot Active Day Center in Clay City is expected to be completed in July 2023 to accommodate the growing membership for its social-based activities and respite program. The new location, 245 Seventh Ave in Clay City, will accommodate 35-40 people daily. This new center is designed with clients’ mobility in mind, which means grass will be used instead of concrete parking space dividers. Other features include outdoor programs for gardening, exercise, and art classes along with more space for indoor programs. In the outdoor garden, the beds will be at different heights to be more comfortable for the participating gardeners.

Operated by Kentucky River Foothills, the Active Day Center provides comprehensive health, social, supportive, and therapeutic services for functionally impaired adults in a community-based setting. The program provides caregivers a break by offering respite care options five days a week. It’s also a valuable lifeline for someone who’s goal is to keep their loved one in the home. They serve clients that have a physical, mental, and/or intellectual disability as determined by an independent assessor. Referrals are also received from Home Health Case Managers. Although located in Powell County, they serve clients from Powell and many neighboring counties.

Clients may come as often as they wish, or according to the needs of the participant or their caregiver. Transportation, often through Foothills Express, is provided. They are a licensed medical care facility through the Office of the Inspector General and Medicaid. Medicaid covers the cost of adult daycare for qualified patients. Participants that do not qualify for Medicaid can choose private pay. Patients/caregivers can choose a schedule that fits their needs.

Social Activities
Each day is filled with activities to promote socialization, therapy, recreation, and relaxation. “During their time with us, participants spend time with others and improve daily living skills,” said Karen Atkins, KRFDC public information officer. “Clients take part in supervised exercise programs, crafts, outings, gardening, birthday parties, holiday celebrations and relaxation techniques. Even if your loved one has dementia, he or she might be able to enjoy music, simple activities, and being surrounded by friends.”

Health Monitoring
“Beyond providing social opportunities, our program serves as a safe and familiar place for your loved one to receive health services,” said Atkins. “Our trained staff’s priority is the well-being of each client. Dedicated, skilled nurses and LPNs are always on site while clients are at the center. While they are with us, clients are served breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Clients receive assistance with eating, taking medication, toileting, and walking. They also receive health monitoring for concerns such as blood pressure and blood sugar.”

Preserving Independence
Foothills’ Active Day Center offers a chance for people with dementia or other disabilities to get out of the house and be on their own in a safe environment. “They enjoy control over activities that they partake in, boosting their self-esteem and sense of well-being. It can also help maintain positive relationships between the person and the caregiver,” said Atkins.

Convenience for Caregivers
“Families who take part in our program consistently experience lower levels of stress related to caregiving, report increases in socialization opportunities for their loved one, experience decreased symptoms of depression, and benefit from cost savings versus in-home care,” said Atkins. “Caregivers receive much needed respite while their loved one is with us, and often go to work, take care of personal business, or simply relax.”

Additional Services
In addition to activities provided at the center, they provide home delivered meals and attendant care in the client’s home, all while maintaining individual dignity and self-identity.

Tours Available
The Center welcomes new clients. “There is no need to make a reservation, just show up, learn about our Center, and plan on staying for lunch,” said Atkins. “You will meet new people and participate in community events. Our goal is to become an extension of your home.”

The Active Day Center is funded through Medicaid and program revenue.

For more information, please contact: Mindy Bowen, Director
176 12th Street, Clay City, KY 40380
Phone: (606) 663-0794
Email: [email protected]
Monday through Friday, 7:30 am–4 pm

In addition to the Active Day Center, an entire wing will be dedicated to the Powell Outreach Office, which provides community services such as case management, Weatherization, Goodwill vouchers, New Eyes for the Needy, and more.