Three elderly adults gather around a young woman playing a black piano with white dove and musical note decorations, in a room with wooden accents and potted plants.

Our Stories

An elderly man smiling and dancing at a party, with a woman in a floral dress next to him. Other guests are dancing and socializing in the background inside a decorated event tent.
An elderly woman with glasses holding colorful balloons and a paper crown, smiling, in front of a shiny, multicolored backdrop with streamers and star decorations, celebrating a festive occasion.

My wife was diagnosed with a progressive, degenerative brain disorder in 2014. Her condition gradually worsened over the years, from a little trouble with word-finding to frank dementia, and my role as caregiver correspondingly increased. By early 2019 my resources of time, energy and patience were wearing thin – and then I discovered Upper Valley Adult Day Care. The staff at the Upper Valley Adult Day Care welcomed my wife – and myself – into their family, and the two days a week she spent in their care gave me time and space to rebalance my life.

At the same time, my wife profited from socialization with other participants and with visitors ranging from pre-schoolers to Gracie the golden retriever. Her involvement in crafts, music, and other activities meant that she always left the Upper Valley Adult Day Care with a smile on her face. And her year at the Upper Valley Adult Day Care also made her recent move into a memory care facility somewhat easier for both of us to handle.

I cannot speak too highly of the staff and volunteers at the Upper Valley Adult Day Care. They cared for both of us – and are always smiling; I don’t know how they do it. They are understanding and compassionate, capable and resourceful – and everlastingly patient. The Upper Valley Adult Day Care is a resource this community desperately needs – let us do all we can to make it flourish.

– Phillip (Caregiver, March 2020)

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A page from a care facility brochure titled 'A Community Rooted in Care, Serving the Upper Valley'. It features a woman in colorful accessories and a plaid shirt, smiling. Next to her is a text block describing her role as a caregiver for her husband with Alzheimer's, along with a quote about their routine.

“As a caregiver, I’m pulled in all directions. When he’s at Upper Valley Adult Day Care, I can do errands, take care of the house, or have some much needed downtime, all the while knowing he’s safe. I couldn’t ask for a better place”

Terri P. (Caregiver)

A young girl dressed in a gray fluffy dog costume, talking animatedly with an older man in a red vest, while other children and adults are gathered in a lively indoor space, possibly a community event or party.

“A caregiver is a person who is not just looking for time off! Complex needs for both care giver and loved ones present themselves, and often solutions are not available. But, there is hope with the wonderful Upper Valley Adult Day Care, a warm and open place that gently invites and cares for people with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. I am happy to know that my partner is accepted, loved, and provided for. This peace of mind is worth gold, and makes my time off worthwhile. ”

Reenie H. (Caregiver)

An elderly couple sharing a kiss in a living room with wood beams on the ceiling and a window showing green trees outside.

“Its so much more than what happens during the day here. It is how it makes you feel the rest of the week.”

Katy D. (Participant)

Two elderly individuals wearing aprons are sitting at a table with a large white poster board featuring colorful painted triangles. They are smiling and looking at the camera. In the background, a few people are standing and engaging in conversation.
Woman celebrating her 70th birthday at a party, wearing a sash that reads "70" and surrounded by dancing couples in a decorated event tent.

Upper Valley Adult Day Care has changed our life. Alzheimer’s took my wife of 25 years and left me with a person I no longer knew. I watched her spiral into a reclusive life. It was horrible and I slowly sunk into a depression thinking this was the end. A friend told me about an adult daycare that could help while I continued to work. The name alone, “adult daycare”, left me feeling like I had given up on this person who I loved. Like I was abandoning her, I cried all the way to work the first week she was attending the Scotland House. We had met Tonya a couple weeks earlier to talk about the program and I left feeling like this was a good decision. The first few weeks were tough as my wife adjusted to a social environment. The staff was amazing and I felt like I had a new family. Not staff, but a caring and supportive family. I felt a big weight had been lifted off my shoulders. Even more importantly, my wife was changing.

She was happier and talkative. While I wish the smiles she has for Tonya were for me, I am happier that my wife is just happy. I see the same smiles for all of the staff when we arrive and when she says goodbye.

I know that despite this terrible disease these people have made our lives better. TheUpper Valley Adult Day Care has made a difference, not just by watching my wife while I work but growing her socially and emotionally. They adapt for her daily changes in mood, they engage her in games and letting her help with daily tasks. I never know what to expect, some days it’s a new hair style, some days it’s manicures. Great lunches and snacks, activities that make happy memories she can take home for me. Now, I sing to the songs on the radio as we drive to see our new family in the morning, making her laugh and poke fun at my off key screeching. Most of all, I don’t cry driving to work anymore. I look forward to picking her up and hearing her stories of the day. Despite the aphasia, I know exactly what she’s saying and it’s all good. The right place, the right people, the right decision.

Christopher Braudis (Caregiver/Spouse)

Two elderly women sitting at a table decorated with colorful striped and yellow tablecloths, celebrating with party decorations, festive hats, and drinks. The woman on the left wears a yellow hat with an orange flower, glasses, and a vibrant floral j
Two elderly women sit at a table covered with newspapers, engaging in a watercolor painting activity. The woman on the left has white hair, wears a cream-colored shirt, and glasses on her head, smiling at the camera. The woman on the right has blonde
An elderly man sitting at a table painting with blue and yellow paint, with a woman standing behind him smiling. There are art supplies and people in the background.
Close-up of elderly person's hands holding a white ceramic cup, with the background blurred showcasing colorful patterned clothing.
An elderly woman with white hair and glasses smiling while looking at a phone, with a caregiver wearing a face mask and glasses beside her, both focusing on the phone.
An elderly man with glasses and a beard, wearing a blue and white plaid sweater, is sitting in a wooden chair holding a red stick and a black tube, smiling and looking to his right. A woman in a red sweater is standing behind him, smiling and clappin
Close-up of elderly hands gently clasped on top of each other, resting on a white lace cloth on a blue surface, with people in the background.
A group of people, including an elderly man in a wheelchair and a young girl in a gray dog costume, interacting indoors with several adults and children in the background.
Scrabble tiles spelling out 'DEMENTIA' on a plain white background.
Older man sitting in a recliner receiving a hug from a black poodle, with an older woman sitting nearby on a beige sofa and a window in the background.
Red wooden building with a ramp, hanging flower baskets, large windows, and green plants outside under a clear blue sky.
Three elderly people, one woman playing the black piano, and two men standing nearby, in a cozy room with wooden accents and framed pictures on the wall.
A group of elderly people sitting and standing in a cozy, well-lit room, watching a woman perform a dance or exercise routine, with windows in the background and colorful artwork hanging on the walls.
Four elderly people gathered around a table working on a colorful puzzle. Two women and two men, one of whom is seated, and one woman and the man are standing as they place puzzle pieces together.
A young girl dressed in a gray puppy costume talking to an elderly man seated indoors, with several adults and children in the background in a festive setting.
Older adults participating in a recreational activity in a communal room, with a caregiver assisting them; one person sitting on a couch holding foam noodles, others seated or standing, engaging in a group exercise or game.
A man and woman sitting at a table inside a room, looking at a tree trunk with a birdhouse attached. The table has a coffee mug, newspapers, and debris around the base of the tree.
Two elderly women sitting at a table with plates of food, drinks, and festive decorations, with a group of people in the background at another table in a bright room.
An elderly man and a woman are sitting at a table, engaged in arts and crafts. The table is filled with colorful paper, glue, scissors, and decorative gems, and they appear to be making a craft together.
Two elderly women wearing aprons sit at a table displaying colorful, abstract painted triangle shapes. In the background, other people are seen standing and chatting, and the room appears to be a community or activity center.
A woman wearing fun oversized sunglasses with daisies and a colorful flower crown, purple flower lei, smiling and celebrating at a table with a floral tablecloth, newspaper, and party accessories in the background.
An elderly man with white hair and a beard sits on a beige sofa, playing a small drum with a colorful mallet. A bouquet of tulips in a glass vase is on a wooden table in front of him. Two other people are in the background, sitting on a dark blue cou
A group of five people, including elderly individuals, are gathered indoors around a table. One person is holding a golden retriever dog, and the others are engaging in conversation. The room has a quilt hanging on the wall and several chairs around
An elderly woman and an elderly man dancing together in a living room, holding hands and smiling.
Close-up of a blue forget-me-not flower with yellow center and pink buds on a green background.
Two women smiling and hugging outdoors with green foliage in the background.
Group of five women celebrating with American flags and patriotic accessories, standing in front of festive decorations.
Group of people at a celebration wearing fun costumes and glasses, with a colorful, festive backdrop of metallic streamers, stars, and pinwheels.
A smiling man wearing blue novelty sunglasses, a colorful flower headband, and a pink leis. He is dressed in a purple t-shirt with yellow and white text that reads "LAD THE FIGHT SURVIVOR" and a logo for Alzheimer's association. The background shows
An elderly man kneeling on the carpeted floor, holding a small drum, surrounded by various bags and belongings, in a room with a television, shelf, and small table.
An elderly man with a shaved leg sitting in a recliner, talking to a black poodle dog, with a woman sitting on a nearby sofa, in a sunlit living room.

Peter S. Kaufman, Ph.D (Caregiver/Spouse)

Upper Valley Adult Day Care was wonderful and affordable for my wife for 16 months from January 2024 to May 2025.  She received safety, security, some social activity, good food from the Thompson Center, two shower/baths each week, and entertaining activity from therapy dogs, local musicians, word puzzles, games, and other performances.  This babysitting gave me time to address the complexity of our life together as she lost cognition, balance, mobility, memory, and many other abilities.

I was so happy to learn that Upper Valley Adult Day Care had some openings. Even though it was a half hour ride from our home it was so worth it.

My husband Dan was not very kind when we took a tour - he told me he didn’t belong in a place like that. Tonya suggested we tell him that he could “work” there. The staff needed help with chores and he could help. We expected a terrible first day, but I was told when I picked him up that he had had an amazing day. After that, all his days at Upper Valley Adult Day Care were great. I was very impressed with the way the staff personalized each client’s experience.

I felt Dan was always treated with respect and kindness. And for me, knowing he was being safely looked after gave me the peace of mind I needed so I could take some time for myself.

Patricia Lemon (Caregiver/Spouse)

An elderly man and woman dancing together in a living room with beige carpet, gray and blue sofas, and decorative wall art.
  • Four elderly adults gathered around a table in a room with a quilt on the wall. One woman is seated and speaking to a man holding a gold retriever dog, with a woman standing and leaning in nearby.

    Cheryl (Caregiver/Daughter)

    As the primary caregiver for my mother with Alzheimers Disease, this vital resource assists with having a safe, fun, inactive program for mom to attend while I am working.

    The programs and activities give her socialization and wonderful interactions with other participants, volunteers and the staff. These interactions assist with keeping her engaged, which is important for her overall wellbeing.

    The care the participants receive is excellent with staffing that is very caring to both the participants and their families.

    The Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House) is an essential resource that assists families with keeping their loved ones within their home environments.

  • Steph (Caregiver/Spouse)

    As a full-time caregiver for my husband, who has Alzheimers, Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House) became a very important part of my support system a few years ago.

    While he enjoys the two days a week of socialization and activities, I am able to do errands or just have some alone time worry free knowing he is being well cared for by kind and caring professionals in a safe and supportive environment.

    I find the staff friendly and considerate, and even affectionate in their interactions with my husband. It feels like they have become an extension of our family. When I drop him off and pick him up there are always smiles and laughter.

  • An elderly man and middle-aged woman sit at a table, unlocking a paper lunch bag with a tree growing out of it, in a cozy, well-lit room with wood beams.

    Anonymous (Caregiver/Home Provider)

    I’m so grateful to have found the Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House) for my loved one. It not only provides me time for myself to maintain a healthy balance, it brings such happiness to my loved one.

    The love is unconditional at the Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House). My loved one enjoys every day she attends. Always has a smile on her face knowing she gets to go for the day and do lots of activities.

    Such a great group of staff at Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House). Always ready to great you with a smile and knowing how secure the building is makes you feel at ease when dropping off.

    The activities are awesome! My loved one gets so excited when she gets her nails done. It’s like going to the spa for the day for her. Thank you for always making her happy!

  • Elderly people gathered in a cozy room, participating in a seated group activity led by a woman at the front. The room is decorated with colorful artwork and has large windows letting in natural light.

    Martha (Caregiver/Spouse)

    Colin’s face lights up when I tell him it’s Upper Valley Adult Day Care (Scotland House) day, each Tuesday.

    As we drive up the driveway, he knows the building and eagerly gets out of the car. When I pick him up at the end of the day, he is ready to come home and relax, because he has had a busy, active day. He forgets almost all else, but not the Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House).

    With my “day off” I can do the things I love: gardening, walking, rehearsing bells with my bell choir, having a long phone conversation with an old friend.

    Upper Valley Adult Day Center (Scotland House) makes such a difference in our lives. Day after day as we navigate the challenges of Alzheimers, we get enclosed in our roles as caregivers and loved one receiving care. By having just one day off, it resets those boundaries. I think we both get to feel more like ourselves.

  • Interior view of a community room with tables and chairs, a piano with plants on it, and two elderly men sitting and talking at a table. There are colorful artwork and decorations on the walls and ceiling, a kitchenette in the background, and a potted plant in the center.

    Robin (Caregiver/Spouse)

    My mom, Arlene, went to your wonderful program for 3 years. She was very social and loved making new friends she got to see daily. She was happy and thrived there with the kind and compassionate care she received.

    When I would visit mom and talk to her on the phone she would tell me all about her day and the fun she was having. She would always tell me it was one of the best things I have done for her.

  • Red wooden building with a small covered porch, hanging flower baskets, and surrounding green lawn and plants.

    Anonymous (Caregiver/Spouse)

    The Upper Valley Adult Day Care is an oasis.

    It has made a big difference in my husband’s life and in mine. It offers him the socialization and care he needs provided by an outstanding staff.

    It allows me time to accomplish things without worry. The facility is very pleasant and inviting. I’m truly grateful that such a valuable community resource is available.