Carol's Story

More Than Care. A Place to Belong.

For 93-year-old Carol Minnick, the days at home used to pass quietly. While her family worked to ensure she was safe and well-cared for, the realities of social isolation were hard to ignore. It’s a challenge many families face when balancing the physical safety of a loved one with their need for an active, meaningful daily life.

The turning point came when Carol’s family reached a stressful crossroads — navigating a dementia diagnosis without outside support was stretching their daily lives to the limit.

“There’s just two of us,” said her son, Ron. “We were at a point where we weren’t sure what we were going to do.”

That was when they discovered the Penn Highlands Adult Day Center. By focusing on companionship, smiles and shared experiences, the center helps seniors maintain their abilities and independence for as long as possible.

Since joining the program, Carol has found a sense of purpose and routine, participating in baking bread, playing cards and helping staff fold laundry, among other activities.

“She loves this place,” said her daughter, Sharon. “We know that she’s here in a safe environment, a caring environment and a loving environment.”

“This place has been a savior for her,” said Ron. “It’s improved our lives, and she comes home happy every day.”