Linda Mercer’s dad, George Pushee, planned to live the rest of his life in his home in Templeton, Massachusetts, but about three years ago he began to struggle with chronic health issues.

After a series of hospitalizations for pneumonia and congestive heart failure, Linda brought George home about a year ago to live with her and her husband, Jim, in Newcastle. While her father’s overall health has stabilized over the past year, she has seen his memory deteriorate.

A retired wildlife biologist who sang in his church choir for more than 50 years and had his own antique business, George still loves watching sports, particularly the Patriots, and playing a nightly game of cribbage with Linda and Jim, but he has difficulty remembering names or even what day it is. Sometimes caring for him can be challenging, said Linda.

The Chase Point Adult Day Program gives him a chance to get out of the house and be in a different environment, one that is both stimulating and safe, said Linda.

“We heard positive comments from our neighbors about the Adult Day program and dad’s personal health care providers also recommended it. It helps us to know that he has an activity to enjoy and appreciate and it gives me a couple of hours to work at home or do some errands,” said Linda. “The people are very caring and I have been very pleased with how they treat dad and how they take care of him.”

Chase Point, with a nurse on duty every day and located on the Miles Campus of LincolnHealth Hospital, feels safe. Linda knows that if her dad does have a medical problem, excellent care is close by.

Every family that copes with dementia faces its own unique challenges, but Wanda Wilcox, Executive Director of Chase Point Assisted Living, said it is vital that those who care for a loved one with dementia understand what resources are available to them.

Chase Point Adult Day offers an experienced staff, healthy and tasty meals, a wide spectrum of activities designed to slow cognitive decline, including popular musical programs, as well as clinical services like medication administration and a whirlpool bath, so caregivers can have peace of mind while they enjoy the respite they need to continue to care for their loved one.

“Being a caregiver is probably the hardest job out there,” said Karen Sawyer, Manager of Adult Day Services at Chase Point.

Assistance with the cost of Adult Day services is available from several sources, including the Veterans Affairs Administration.

Chase Point Adult Day is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call Karen Sawyer at 563-4625.