Last week, Lowrey McNeel celebrated his 78th year of a tremendously well-led life. His leadership roles as senior class president and treasurer of his fraternity were just some of his accomplishments before beginning an incredible career at IBM in Atlanta, Georgia. After meeting his wife Carol, the pair traveled the world before retiring in Williamsburg when Lowrey was 52.
When Lowrey and his wife found that his day to day began to consist of him staying at home in front of a TV when some health issues arose, including memory problems, they looked for something to keep him both active and safe.
“Ever since I can remember, I have loved being around people,” Lowrey shared. “My wife and I both felt it would be better for me to be around others.”
Social Bonds
When Lowrey and Carol learned about the Adult Day Services at Williamsburg Landing, they picked up the phone and signed up the very next day. From the music programs to the meals served, the program has been a blessing to both Lowrey and his wife. Carol is now able to attend her own medical appointments and socialize with her friends, knowing that Lowrey is making new friends while being cared for and engaging in stimulating activities.
“The people are so interesting, and there is always something to do. I love the dancing and the music, especially,” Lowrey said. “The food is excellent. We have our own dedicated chef, and the food is so much better than if I stayed home and had hot dogs.”
Creating for the Community
The Adult Day Center at Williamsburg Landing is the first full-time, licensed service of its kind in the area. The professional staff includes a registered nurse and is primarily for individuals who are 50 and over. The Adult Day Center offers both full-day or half-day programs, and is an enriching option for family caregivers and their loved ones.
Debbie Whybra, director of Williamsburg Landing Adult Day Center, contributes to their strong bond with the community and the mission to expand to this new offering of services.
“We are seeing a growing number of adults in the greater Williamsburg community, as well as within the Williamsburg Landing Community, with conditions affecting memory and independence; those that are coping with either physical or cognitive challenges that necessitate supervision and assistance.”
Experience and Empathy
Whybra knew the Adult Day Center director position was right for her on a personal level. After struggling to find somewhere for her mother-in-law, who did not want to leave her home, even though she was alone, bored, and not safe, Whybra knows a center of this kind would have been a perfect place for her.
“Our purpose is to maintain and improve seniors’ physical and mental health as well as the quality of their lives,” Whybra said. “This program offers access to individualized, engaging programs where people receive focused attention, while providing respite to their loved ones.”
Engaging Activities
As for the Adult Day activities, members can enjoy Fitness Fun, Music Programs, (they even have a choir), Trivia and Games, guest speakers, Expressive Art, Reminiscing, “It’s Never Too Late” technology, field trips to a variety of places both on and off campus, including parks, museums, boat rides, hay rides, and more.
The Adult Day program activities take place in a variety of spaces, including a large gathering room, an art studio, music and activity rooms, a game room, a quiet room, living room, and an outdoor patio.
Compassion and Purpose
“We want to give back to the community and provide a vibrant program that meets this need yet is affordable.” Whybra shared. “This is a warm, welcoming place where people come to interact in a social, stimulating environment.”
For Lowrey, he expressed that this has been the best decision he’s ever made.
“As the first person that signed up, I have seen this program grow and develop into something really great. I love it here.”
Learn more about the Adult Day Services at Williamsburg Landing by clicking here.
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