“I have made lots of new friends and I really enjoy crafts, exercise and the company. I am new to the Day Centre, and before this, I might not have seen anybody for days. So it’s a great outing,” according to Mary Mahon, an attendee at the new Day Care Services at the Joe and Helen O’Toole Community Nursing Unit, Tuam, Co Galway.

The unit opened its doors to the new day care services in recent weeks and now operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with dementia-specific day care on Wednesdays.  Up to 10 people attend each day, with up to 5 for dementia day care, benefiting from a variety of activities tailored to their individual preferences. These activities include music, dancing, bingo, card playing, poetry, art, crafts and chair exercises.

According to Sini Varghese, Director of Nursing, “the Day Care Centre for Older Persons provides a much-needed service to our community.  It is at the heart of the wellbeing of our community and plays a critical role in supporting families and individuals in need of specialised care.  It provides a welcoming environment where those attending can receive the high-quality, compassionate services and support that they need.”

For Amrutha Abraham, Staff Nurse, who organises the service, such day centres are “fundamental to the health and well-being of our older population and play a key role in enabling older people to live independently in their own communities.  We are delighted to be offering this service in the Joe & Helen O'Toole, Community Nursing Unit for the people of Tuam and surrounding area.”

According to attendee Brendan Gilligan, the service means that he meets “like-minded people. I get on fine and I like to support the day care as it is near me.”

For Mary Lawlor, another attendee, the service means a “lovely day out.  I look forward to meeting my new friends.” And according to Bridie Miskell, attendee, those who avail of the service are like “a little community.”

Facilities at the HSE Day Care Centre consist of a large day room, kitchen, office area, with access also provided to the general and rooftop gardens. Catering is provided by the kitchen in the CNU.  Transport is available and referrals can be made through the local Public Health Nurse and GP.