They say life passes you by in the blink of an eye, but life doesn’t have to get boring as one ages. Cue Senior Services. As part of the broader program, The Williams Adult Day Center, started in the 1960s/1970s after a Harvard Divinity School theologian, Harvey Cox, called on churches to look beyond their own institutions and to address the social needs of the community. After many meals, gatherings, and activities, church leaders recognized an influx of older adults who needed extra care. Three churches downtown joined forces and started an adult day care center in 1974, located at 920 W. First St., which is now part of Truist Stadium.
As the need grew, Senior Services expanded its avenues of support, including salon services in-house, rehabilitation therapy spaces, and a secured outdoor area — which still exists today. The organization expanded to a bigger facility over the years, and most recently, settled in the Intergenerational Center for Arts and Wellness, which opened in early 2024.
Bragging rights
By September 2024, the day center earned its second recognition as the “Best Adult Day Services Association’s Center” in the nation. It offers over 20 daily programs, from choir practices to bingo activities, which are popular among participants. Older adults also engage with college students from local universities like Winston-Salem State University, UNC School of the Arts, and Wake Forest University. Students oversee weekly activities like occupational therapy, music activities, and learning sessions.
How to get involved
Senior Services will celebrate its 50th anniversary for the adult day program during “Evening for 25 Years of Alzheimer’s Care: A Night to Remember” on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Generations Center at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will go toward supporting participants of the adult day center. Can’t attend the event? You give to the cause through online donations.
The day center accepts volunteers who can assist with distributing lunch, coordinating activities, or checking in participants. Applications are open year-round.
