Adult Day Service: Friendship Club Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Adult Day Service (ADS)?
A: BTSS Adult Day Service program (ADS) is called Friendship Club. It is a social program dedicated to assisting older adults with early to mid-stage dementia to maintain their highest level of ability. It provides a period of respite for family caregivers. Social model ADS provides non-medical supervision in a safe and engaging setting.*.
We provide therapeutic activities and structured socialization to meet the strengths and needs of people with dementia. Persons in the program are carefully grouped with others who share common interests and abilities to ensure successful engagement for all members.
Improvement in mood, sleep patterns, and socialization with peers are benefits of participation. The stimulating and caring environment is designed to enhance the self-esteem, wellbeing, and dignity of each member through the creation of person-centered programs. Friendship Club ADS is based on the social model of service provision.
*Medical model ADS has medical professionals on staff and carse for higher levels of need. Friendship Club is not a medical model ADS.
Q: Where is Adult Day Service located?
A: The Friendship Club Adult Day Service is located in the Bloomfield Township Senior Center, 4315 Andover Road, Bloomfield Township.
Q: Can my loved one trial the Friendship Club?
A: Yes, we offer 4 complimentary trial visits for individuals to experience the group and determine if it is a suitable fit for them. Care partners may stay for the first visit if desired.
Q: Are there any other requirements for enrollment in the Friendship Club?
A: The enrollment process includes consideration of the person’s abilities and needs in light of our abilities to maintain our therapeutic setting. Members must be at least 50 years old and able to walk independently with assistance of a cane or walker, or move a wheelchair independently. Individuals must also be able to use the restroom independently without supervision. After the trial visits, but in advance of enrolling in the program, the guardians/responsible parties have agreed to pay the designated fee.
Q: What are the fees? And what do they include?
A: Program fees are $80.00 per day (4 hours). ADS is a reasonable way to provide care with the added value of socialization and therapeutic activities. This fee includes a hot lunch, refreshments, partnership in care support and a full activities program. Non-residents are welcome to enroll if criteria are met and do pay a higher fee ($90 per day).
Q: What are hours of operation?
A: The Friendship Club hours of operation are: 10:00am to 2:00 pm, Monday and Thursday.
Q: Are meals provided for members?
A: Yes. A hot meal at lunch and refreshments are served daily. The hot lunches are provided by BTSS Meals on Wheel Program.
Q: Is transportation available?
A: Based on availability of staff, we may be able to offer transportation service for those members who are assessed to benefit from transport. This is a prescheduled service that is offered either one-way or roundtrip. Transportation is available within the township only.
Q: What activities are offered?
A: The activities and programs offered are designed specifically for individuals living with dementia and build on each member’s ability and interest. A diverse selection of activities include: creative arts and crafts, board and card games, baking, gardening, reminiscence therapy, pet visits, exercise programs and group discussions. Music providers visit several times a week.
Q: Are support services offered for family caregivers?
A: Yes. Our caregiver support group meets the third Thursday of every month from 10:00-11:00 pm at the Bloomfield Township Senior Center. This support group is open to anyone that is providing care to someone with dementia.