Adult day care services for seniors have become more popular since they were first introduced in the 1970s.

Adult day care is a program that includes health, social and supportive services in a safe, protective environment during the day, according to Paula Sypulski, director at Concordia.

It has adult day care services five days a week that is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. It has 16 participants

"Seniors in adult day services programs may be physically, mentally, or functionally impaired, or they may simply need companionship or supervision during part of the day," she said in a news release.

Studies show that with adult day services, people with health problems, Alzheimer's disease, chronic illnesses, or physical disabilities are able to continue to live in the community while receiving professional services in a group setting. Involvement in an adult day care program can increase a senior's health, outlook, and chances of remaining in the community.

Concordia's day care services offers assistance with eating, walking, toileting, medications, bathing and grooming; physical, speech, or occupational group therapies; daily activities and exercise class; meals, snacks or special diets; individual care plans; the medical oversight of a nurse on site, and worship services.

Concordia also provides therapies for individuals with diminishing mental abilities, including reminiscing, re-motivation, music and pet therapies, arts and crafts, and social skills.

The adult day services program has an Alzheimer's caregivers support group meeting the second Tuesday of each month. Care is provided at no cost to people with Alzheimer's Disease for the meeting.

Statistics show adult day care allows for improvements in mental and physical health, in the maintenance of the senior's level of independence and prevention of social isolation and in the mental deterioration that often accompanies it with adult day care.

Adult day services will have extended hours until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, effective July 18. A special feature will include an evening meal.

"Many families have expressed a need for additional time after work for their children's activities," Sypulski said. "We have extended the time to accommodate their needs."

This extended time can also help people with dementia who have "sundowning."

"Sometimes late-afternoon and early evening hours can be difficult for people suffering from dementia," said Sypulski. "They may experience what clinicians refer to as sundowning and are more restless, anxious or easily agitated."

Concordia will have an open house from 5 to 7 p.m. on July 15. Call Paula Sypulski at 724-352-1571 ext. 271 if you want to attend or for information.