Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living strives to improve the quality of life for those impacted by aging and impairment. We collaborate with the local Councils on Aging and other service organizations to provide a range of programs and support for older adults and their caregivers.
The Supportive Day Program is a daily activity program for older adults who are at risk if left alone or may experience memory challenges. Activities in this program are designed to promote and enhance social engagement for participants while providing respite for their caregivers.
Gina Stanley (of ArtCliff Diner) is not only one of the incredible volunteers in the kitchen at MV Center for Living, but also one of the family caregivers in our community. She has graciously shared her story below.
“The Center for Living has made such a tremendous, positive impact on my 84 year old father. Being the sole caregiver, I wanted to see what was out there for him. I was given a lovely tour and thought that maybe down the road it would be good for him, but at this time I didn’t think he needed such a set routine.
As the weeks went on, I noticed my dad’s day-to-day life became less enjoyable. It made me feel bad that I couldn’t make him happy at home. I realized that he needed the social setting, brain stimulation, and friendship of people his own age, going through the same things he was experiencing. I realized I was the one not ready for our routine to change, but it wasn’t about what was good for me.
Since my dad’s enrollment in the Supportive Day Program, I see such a change in his disposition. He is excited to tell me about the crafts and exercise he did, the lunch he enjoyed, and the friends he has made. Plus, it gives me time away to take care of me. I am so grateful to all that participate in my dad’s enjoyment at MVCL. We are BOTH grateful.”
Kelly Connors, caregiver to her mother, Carolyn, who is, “87 going on 25,” says,
“My mom and I call MVCL The Club because it’s not exclusive, quite the opposite, but a group of people with similar goals and aspirations later in life, who still want to live their best life. So it’s a club!”
– Kelly Connors
Agreeing with her daughter, Carolyn shared,
“MVCL gives me a chance to laugh a lot!” – Carolyn Connors
In addition to the Supportive Day Program, MVCL offers Memory Screening, Dementia Coaching, education and information, a weekly Caregiver Support Group, a new Early Stage Dementia Support Group, the community Shopping Shuttle, and we host a weekly Open House.
Sandy Joyce is another family caregiver and regularly attends the Dementia Caregiver Support Group.
“I have been part of the Dementia Caregiver’s Support Group for the past 3 years. It has been a lifeline for me and I can’t imagine how I would be coping if not for the support of the group and our incredibly knowledgeable co-leaders, Leslie Clapp and Nancy Langman. I plan to have my mother attend the Center in the very near future and look forward to experiencing this part of the program as well. We are blessed to have not only a supportive day program for our elders with challenges, but also a group that supports caregivers, especially with the aging population on MV. Many friends off Island cannot find anything like it! Please consider the MV Center for Living for a Community Impact Grant!” – Sandy Joyce
Every family we serve has a story as compelling as Gina’s, Kelley’s, Carolyn’s, and Sandy’s. 1 in 3 island residents are aged 65+, and our programs are growing to meet the needs of our community. Please vote for Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living and support our vision to provide services and programs that create an age-friendly environment, promote dignity, reduce stigma, support independence, and foster community engagement.
Thank you!