VON Adult Day Program offers vital support for local clients and caregivers, spots available for new clients
By Stacey Sullivan
Just beyond the main stretch of Lakefield, the VON Adult Day Program (ADP) is quietly making a meaningful difference in the lives of local families. Located at 135 Queen St., Unit #104, behind Village Pharmacy, the program may be one of Lakefield’s best kept secrets. With spots currently available and no waitlist, staff are hoping to spread the word and welcome new clients.
The program supports older adults, typically ranging from their mid-60s up to 100 years old, offering a structured and engaging environment designed to promote independence, mobility, and social connection. Many clients begin by attending once or twice a week, but it often doesn’t take long before they want to come more frequently.
“I have people that come up to five days a week because they’re just loving it,” said Meagan Kempenaar, Lakefield ADP Supervisor. “They even want to come on the weekends.”
Clients watch the morning activity at the VON Lakefield ADP (Photo: Discover Lakefield)
Daily programming is thoughtfully planned to include a mix of cognitive and physical activities, while still allowing flexibility based on individual interests. Mornings begin at a relaxed pace, with clients choosing activities they enjoy such as puzzles, colouring, reading, or simply sitting with a coffee and chatting. As the day progresses, the group comes together for games, snacks, and movement-based programming.
“We try to do a nice variety of cognitive and physical activities so that we’re working the brain and also maintaining everyone’s independence and mobility,” Kempenaar explained.
Activities at the Lakefield ADP are designed to provide both cognitive and physical exercise. (Photo: Discover Lakefield)
From themed games and word challenges to music and exercise, the programming is designed to be both stimulating and fun. Seasonal and holiday themes are often incorporated, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the day, with activities like Easter egg hunts, musical games such as “Name That Tune,” and even themed days where the lunch matches the theme. Clients also participate in chair exercises and short meditation sessions, and enjoy regular visits from therapy dogs and live musical entertainers.
“We just have so much fun here,” Kempenaar said.
While the activities are a key part of the program, the social connection it fosters is just as important.
“The social piece is so important, especially since the pandemic,” said Kempenaar. “We’ve seen a huge decline in socialization, and people didn’t have that routine.”
Theme days add variety and fun for both clients and staff at the ADP. (Photo: VON Peterborough Victoria Haliburton Facebook Page)
Lunchtime, in particular, has become a highlight of the day, offering a chance for conversation and connection.
“I often just sit back and watch because everybody’s conversing,” she said. “It’s really nice to see the friendships that have developed.”
For caregivers, the program provides valuable respite, whether it begins as time to attend appointments or simply take a break. Over time, many come to rely on it as part of their weekly routine.
Caregivers often notice positive changes in their loved ones as well. “They’re coming home happy, and sometimes trying new things. We had a gentleman who played cards for the first time here, and his wife was so surprised.”
Additional supports are also available, including a weekly dinner club with extended hours until 7:00 p.m., as well as caregiver support groups offered twice a year. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and access resources.
“One of the things people struggle with the most is feeling alone or isolated,” Kempenaar said, “They think they're the only one, and so it was really important to me that they're able to have that platform to be able to talk in a safe space and know it's okay to talk about what they’re going through.”
“One of the things people struggle with the most is feeling alone or isolated.”
The program is staffed by a consistent, close-knit team, something Kempenaar says is key to building trust and routine for clients. That sense of community extends beyond the day-to-day programming, with seasonal events like summer barbecues and holiday gatherings to bring clients, caregivers, and staff together.
Summer barbecues and holiday events provide an opportunity for clients, staff, and caregivers to come together and form connections. (Photo: VON Peterborough Victoria Haliburton Facebook Page)
Open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Lakefield ADP is accessible and affordable, with a cost of $20 per day, which includes meals, snacks, activities, and support with medications if needed.
The program serves clients from Lakefield, Peterborough, Bridgenorth, Warsaw, Douro, and surrounding areas, and continues to grow as more families discover its benefits.
To learn more about the ADP or to book a tour, contact Meagan Kempenaar at meagan.kempenaar@von.ca or call 705-957-5247 or 705-651-0141.