For many older adults and their families, finding the right balance between independence, safety, and meaningful connection can feel overwhelming. Fahrney Keedy Senior Living Community’s Adult Day Services Center was created to meet that need offering a warm, structured, and professionally supported environment where adults can thrive during the day while continuing to live at home.
Located in one of the newest buildings on Fahrney Keedy’s campus, the Adult Day Services Center provides a safe, secure, and engaging space for adults to socialize, receive health oversight, and enjoy purposeful activities, all while giving family caregivers the vital gift of respite.
“Providing a safe environment for seniors where not only can they come and have a fun day, but families can also get that respite that’s needed. There are fun activities, and medical care that may be needed,” says Amy Schmidt, Director of Adult Day Services.
A Program Built Around Dignity, Purpose, and Joy
Amy’s passion for the program is rooted in something simple, yet powerful: the belief that every participant still deserves joy, connection, and meaning.
“They’re still here. They still matter. I want them to have fun. I want to get to know them. This is a place where they get to come and see their friends, come to get their medical needs met.”
The Adult Day Services program is also designed to support one of the most important goals for many older adults: aging in place.
“Not everyone wants to go into a nursing home or even assisted living. Adult Day can come along and help by partnering with families and provide that care during the day,” Schmidt says.
Professional Oversight You Can Trust
Participants in the program benefit from licensed nursing supervision and coordination of care, led by on-site RN Carla Bitner, who plays a vital role in ensuring each client’s health needs are understood and monitored.
All participants complete an initial health assessment (completed by a physician) prior to admission, along with required medical documentation such as a current PPD or chest X-ray. Once enrolled, Carla oversees ongoing care practices including:
• Review of medical history, diagnoses, allergies, and care needs
• Monthly vital sign monitoring
• Individualized care plans developed within the first month
• Goal-setting focused on health, safety, and quality of life
• Fall-risk prevention strategies
• Support for maintaining function, especially for those with dementia
As Amy explains, “the stability of coming to a structured program… knowing you’re coming for breakfast, lunch, and a snack… you’re getting your medication… that’s essential in keeping these folks functioning. That continuity of care and structure is so important.”
Engaging Activities That Meet People Where They Are
A key part of what makes the program so special is the intentional, thoughtful programming led by Activities Coordinator Whitney Walck.
“Whitney does a great job at coming up with activities that meet the clients where they’re at cognitively and physically,” Amy shares.
Daily life at the center includes a rich mix of experiences, such as:
• Exercise programs and movement activities
• Games like corn hole and basketball toss
• Community outings (ice cream trips, local restaurants, Antietam Rec, parks, and more)
• Live music and visiting performers
• Volunteers who bring joy and connection, including Mac & Linda Hutto
• Spiritual support and visits from Chaplain Dana
• Therapeutic recreation that encourages participation without pressure
Clients are always encouraged to participate.
“We always want to encourage participation, but we’re always here to cater to someone who may not want to be as involved,” points out Amy.
For those who need quiet time, the center also offers a Serenity Room, a peaceful space with a bed where participants can rest, recharge, or simply enjoy some solitude.
“Maybe a client is alert one part of the day, but tired in another. They definitely have that option to rest.”
Designed for Safety, Comfort, and Peace of Mind
The Adult Day Services Center offers a secure and structured environment, with controlled entry points to protect participants who may be at risk for wandering. The size of the program also allows staff to maintain close supervision and meaningful personal connection with every client.
Says Amy, “drop your loved one off and not worry. Peace of mind is huge with our clients and their families.”
In addition to supervision and programming, services include:
• RN supervision and health monitoring
• Coordination of care and social services
• Transportation to and from the center
• Nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and snack daily)
• Secure patio and garden space
• PT, OT, and Speech Therapy (with physician order and insurance approval)
Who the Program Serves
Adult Day Services is ideal for older adults who feel isolated and desire social connection. For adults who can’t safely live independently full-time, whether it be to illness or disability. Seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive challenges also have a safe environment waiting on them at the Jone L. Bowman Adult Day Center. And, of course, this program is beneficial to families seeking daytime support and supervision for a loved one.
An Affordable, Flexible Option — Including Medicaid Coverage
The program is designed to be both accessible and flexible. Fahrney Keedy’s Adult Day Services Center is a licensed Medicaid provider, and certain waiver programs may cover the cost for eligible individuals.
“Even for private pay families, comparatively speaking, it’s a much more affordable option than having someone in your home for 6–8 hours a day,” Amy explains.
Attendance is also flexible. Participants can attend one day per week, five days per week, or anywhere in between based on what works best for the family.
Looking Ahead
The future of Adult Day Services at Fahrney Keedy is full of possibility.
“We have lots of room for growth! I can’t wait to see the program continue to be embraced by the community and to meet new clients.”
With compassionate leadership from Amy Schmidt, clinical oversight from RN Carla Bitner, creative programming from Whitney Walck, and a dedicated team behind them, the Adult Day Services Center continues to be a place where dignity, safety, joy, and connection come together every day.
