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Senior Day Care Program Helps Seniors
Remain Active & Vital
 George grew up with the horse and buggy, moved on to the Model T
Ford. He saw the first steam engines, the first airplanes, and the first
refrigerators, washer and dryers. He saw the first moon landing, the
Spanish-American War, World Wars I & II and the construction and
demolition of the Berlin Wall.
These are some examples of the history that has been made during the
lifetime of George Efantis, who celebrated his 104th birthday at a
United Way sponsored senior day care center this past December.
After moving to Lompoc two years ago George's daughter and caregiver,
Gladys, stated "at 102, Dad was no longer active on his own. He used to
enjoy sparring and running. He walked seven miles every day until he had
surgery at the age of 90. While I was busy, Dad fell into the habit of
sleeping all day. I could not get any of my own work done because I was
trying to keep him active and I felt guilty if I let him sleep all day."
United Way's sponsored senior day program is available to help families
struggling with these kinds of situations, where each senior is lovingly
cared for in an environment that is safe, stimulates their remaining
capabilities, and maintains their dignity and self-esteem. The center
provides six hours daily of activities and socializing for seniors,
whose illnesses prevent them from actively participating in other
community activities. Many of the participants suffer from strokes,
Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and other conditions that
require continued attention by a family member.
The stress of care for a loved one with a debilitating illness can be
almost unbearable at times. Having a special place for a loved one to be
during the day often makes such a difference in the life of the
caregiver that the senior is able to stay at home much longer, thus
delaying nursing home placement.
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