Even in tough little towns like Frenchtown TWP, miracles can happen. Sometimes, they catch the eye of many, as is the case with the recent online video spotlighting the Adult Day Program at Frenchtown Center for Active Adults. This video has been seen by over 149K viewers, attracting two new clients and numerous calls, so far. Regardless of where you might be sitting while reading this, it’s undoubtedly a figure worth celebrating.
The man behind the camera is none other than Lance A. Slatton, a local of Carleton who runs Enriched Life Home Care Services, offering education and support to family caregivers. Having pivoted his business to a digital platform through a popular podcast and video series, All Home Care Matters, during the pandemic, Slatton’s content has made an astonishing impact. In total, his channel tallies more than 24 million views, and keeps a faithful viewership of 122,000.
But what’s captivating about this situation is the reason why Slatton chose to document the Adult Day Program. It isn’t just because Slatton serves on the Frenchtown center’s board; it’s because he recognizes the program’s importance in society. For 26 years, this unique enterprise has been offering respite to caregivers and providing social activities for dementia patients. Despite their good work, many remain oblivious about the program’s existence, confusing it for a kindergarten or something similar.
Slatton himself fell into caregiving unexpectedly, stepping away from his medical school ambitions when his father in Carleton suffered a fall. This incident led to an intensive caretaking period for him, and ultimately instigated a massive career shift. He now harnesses his experience to educate, inspire, and guide others in similar situations.
Aside from offering invaluable insights through his video series and columns, Slatton also works with senior centers to promote their services, offers seminars through non-profits in southeast Michigan, and provides medical equipment to those in need.
Relatively understated, the Adult Day Program at Frenchtown Center offers daytime caregiving for those suffering from dementia. They welcome clients for any part of the weekday, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., with extended hours available on prior notice. They offer an array of activities comprising exercise, current events discussion, pet therapy, bingo, crafts, trivia, and meals among others.
The encouraging thing is that the program, based at 2786 Vivian Rd., currently serves 15 attendees and welcomes more to join. It aims to facilitate ‘aging in place,’ allowing patients the comfort of being with their families in their own homes after the program’s hours.
For more information about the center and its Adult Day Program, you can visit the organization’s website, or watch the famous YouTube video that brought us all this amazing story.
