I grew up in a family of sixteen on a farm in southern Quebec, where caring for one another wasn't optional; it was how we survived. Everyone had individual chores, but we shared a collective responsibility: no one was left behind. That early lesson in community and compassion shapes everything I do today at Merrimack Adult Day Health Center, the adult day center I founded to support seniors and their families across New Hampshire.

When someone receives a memory diagnosis, loses mobility, or faces social isolation, the impact ripples through the entire family. Caregivers often struggle to balance work, personal responsibilities, and the constant worry about their loved one's safety and well-being. Our center provides a solution: a safe, engaging environment where seniors thrive during the day while caregivers get the time they need to work, handle errands, or simply rest.

Our multilingual team, fluent in English, French, and Spanish, welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds. We serve participants ranging from their 40s to 90s, including Veterans, with personalized care that helps them remain independent longer. Through structured activities, social connection, and professional supervision, we delay nursing home placement, reduce isolation, and build confidence.

A full-time nurse is always on-site, and we provide nutritious meals, memory care support, and physical and occupational therapy. Daily programming includes community outings, crafts, current events discussions, language classes, exercise, health workshops, live performances, storytelling, yoga, haircuts, and manicures; activities designed to strengthen both cognitive and social skills while celebrating each person's culture and background.

We provide transportation from seven surrounding communities, with two of our four buses equipped with wheelchair lifts. As our center grows, we're adding two more buses to ensure everyone who needs us can reach us.

 

Celine’s daughter, Viviane, says about her mom’s passion: "Our mom has spent the past decade dedicating her life to caring for seniors with compassion, patience, and dignity. She has a rare ability to truly connect with adults living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, brain injuries, Parkinson’s, and other complex needs. Her decision to purchase and grow this business came from a deep understanding of what families in New Hampshire truly need - safe, loving daytime care for their loved ones when they cannot be home by themselves. This calling was inspired by our grandmother, whose battle with Alzheimer’s disease and passing shaped our mom’s purpose in a profound way. That experience transformed her grief into service and her love into action. What she has built is more than a care facility - it’s a place where families find trust, comfort, and peace."

My husband has been attending MADHC for over a year. The staff is kind, caring, and energetic. He always looks forward to going there. When he gets home, he often comments on how hard the staff works, making sure everyone is engaged in activities and not left out. They serve him a healthy breakfast, lunch, and snacks. I can’t say enough about this facility that takes such good care of all their clients.  D.D. - Hudson

 

My wife, Fran, has frontotemporal dementia and has been a participant at Merrimack Adult Day Health Center since its inception. She is presently non-verbal and cannot care for her everyday needs, nor can she be left unattended for any length of time. At the Center, she is in a safe environment and is well taken care of by an exceptional, compassionate staff. They assist her with all aspects of everyday living. This allows me the opportunity to accomplish the things I need to do during the week, as well as have some free time for myself. Without Merrimack Adult Day Health Center, this would not be possible. Paul Michaud - Nashua