“It’s really given me time to do things during the day and pursue some hobbies or have some time to myself.”

That is Howard Simmons. He began bringing his wife to the center three years ago. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2006.

“In about ’07, ’08, I’m becoming quite frustrated because when you’re the principal caregiver and they’re home, you’re doing everything. You know, I became the cook, the cleaner.”

He says his mind has been eased because his wife is well cared for every day.

Lisa Wright is Program Manager for the Alzheimer’s Family Day Care.

Ms. Wright says day care workers also provide a wide expanse of activities that are therapeutic and fun.

“We have an artist come in and do just specific art with small groups. We have musical therapy where we have a lady that brings in instruments and they all get to play the instruments. We have a physical therapist here two days a week. We have a ballroom dancer that comes in. I think that’s probably the favorite. We do a lot of mind challenging games.”

The Alzheimer’s Family Day Care also offers services for caregivers.

“We have a support group that they can come and just share with one another. We have an outreach group and education.”

Galeet BenZion has depended on that help. Her husband learned he had early onset Alzheimer’s in his fifties.